Pathophysiology bridges basic sciences with clinical nursing practice. Understanding disease mechanisms helps nurses recognize signs and symptoms, anticipate complications, and prioritize interventions. NurseQuizPrep specialists provide pathophysiology exam prep with clinical nursing application throughout.

Cardiovascular Pathophysiology

Heart failure pathophysiology (systolic vs. diastolic dysfunction, compensatory mechanisms, Frank-Starling law), coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis, plaque rupture, MI zones), hypertension mechanisms, and shock states (cardiogenic, distributive, hypovolemic, obstructive).

• Heart failure: left-sided (pulmonary edema, SOB) vs right-sided (peripheral edema, JVD)
• Myocardial infarction zones: ischemia, injury, infarct — ECG changes per zone
• Septic shock: vasodilation + capillary leak — warm, flushed skin initially

Respiratory & Renal Pathophysiology

COPD pathophysiology (emphysema vs. chronic bronchitis), asthma (bronchospasm, inflammation, mucus), ARDS (non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema), pneumonia, acute kidney injury (prerenal, intrarenal, postrenal causes), and chronic kidney disease progression.

• COPD: air trapping, barrel chest, pursed lip breathing — hypoxic drive
• ARDS: bilateral infiltrates, PaO2/FiO2 <300, noncardiogenic edema
• AKI prerenal: BUN:Creatinine ratio >20:1 — restore perfusion priority

Endocrine & Neurological Pathophysiology

Diabetes mellitus Type 1 vs. Type 2 mechanisms, DKA vs. HHS, thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid storm), stroke (ischemic vs. hemorrhagic), increased intracranial pressure, and meningitis pathophysiology.

• DKA: Type 1 — ketone production, fruity breath, Kussmaul respirations
• Ischemic stroke: 'time is brain' — tPA within 3-4.5 hours
• Cushing's Triad: ICP emergency — hypertension, bradycardia, irregular respirations