Course Summary

Expiration Date: 10/03/2027

The most recent data on aortic aneurysm deaths were published by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to the CDC data, 9,904 deaths occurred in 2019 from aortic aneurysm dissection, and 59% of those deaths were among men. Although not all aneurysms pose a problem, they can lead to serious health concerns, such as blood clots, pain, and death. Aneurysm progression, a measurement of aneurysm size over time, increases with age and because of several other risk factors. Aneurysm rupture is life-threatening and is considered a medical emergency. Ruptured aneurysms require immediate medical and/or surgical intervention to prevent death. Healthcare professionals must learn to recognize those at high risk for aortic aneurysms, provide adequate screening, and monitor those diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm. Early intervention and assessment by skilled clinicians are vital to diagnosing aneurysms, detecting aneurysm growth, preventing dissection, and reducing mortality.

Course Format

Homestudy

Course Syllabus

  • Introduction
  • The Aorta and Blood Circulation
  • Risk Factors and Comorbidities
  • Aneurysm Etiology
  • True Aortic Aneurysm vs. False(Pseudo) Aneurysm
  • Aortic Aneurysm Types
    • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
    • Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
    • Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm
  • Differential Diagnosis and Screening 
    • Ultrasound
    • Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
    • Aortography
    • Special Screening Considerations
    • Presentation
    • Health History, Review of Systems, and Physical Exam
  • Multiprofessional Health Team Approach
  • Case Study: Aortic Aneurysm
  • Summary

Authors

Lindy Beaver, DNP, MSN, CHE, ACNS-BC

Lindy Beaver is an assistant professor at the College of Nursing, University of South Carolina, Columbia. She has practiced extensively as a clinical nurse with over nine years as Clinical Nurse Specialist. This included department leadership roles in Emergency Services and Surgical Services and Anesthesia. In addition, Lindy Beaver has more than 25 years promoting evidence-based practice that focuses on quality patient outcomes. During her career, Lindy Beaver has integrated tutoring, mentoring, and professional guidance into her practice for all levels of nursing. She enjoys engaging with clinical staff in personal and professional growth, and her career has exemplified a true passion and  devotion to nursing.