(1 point). Listen.
A patient's coronary blood flow is insufficient to meet the metabolic demands of the myocytes.
Which term will the nurse use to describe this process?

Choice A rationale:

A temporary increase in contractile activity would not typically occur in the myocardial cells surrounding a myocardial infarction. During a myocardial infarction, the affected area of the heart experiences a lack of blood supply, leading to cell damage. The damaged cells cannot increase contractile activity; instead, they may become dysfunctional or die.

Choice B rationale:

An increased metabolism is not a characteristic change in myocardial cells surrounding a myocardial infarction. The infarcted area often experiences reduced metabolism due to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply, leading to cellular damage and dysfunction.

Choice D rationale:

Necrosis is a common outcome in myocardial cells surrounding an infarct. However, this is not the immediate change that occurs but rather the eventual result of ischemic injury. During an acute myocardial infarction, cellular changes such as inflammation and eventual necrosis take place, leading to tissue damage. Now, let's move on to the next question:

Choice A rationale:

Unstable plaque in the coronary arteries is a major risk factor for myocardial infarction (MI), also known as a heart attack. When the plaque ruptures or becomes unstable, it can lead to the formation of a blood clot, which can obstruct the blood flow to the heart muscle, causing myocardial infarction. The nurse should monitor for signs and symptoms of MI in this patient, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and ECG changes, to provide prompt intervention and prevent further cardiac damage.

Choice B rationale:

Stable angina is not the most immediate complication associated with unstable plaque in the coronary arteries. While stable angina is related to reduced blood flow to the heart, it is typically triggered by exertion or stress and relieved with rest or medication. Unstable plaque is more likely to lead to myocardial infarction, which is a more critical condition.

Choice C rationale:

Eupnea refers to normal, unlabored breathing and is not a complication associated with unstable plaque in the coronary arteries. It is essential to monitor the patient for cardiac-related complications, such as myocardial infarction, which can be life-threatening.

Choice D rationale:

Orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure upon standing, is not a typical complication of unstable plaque in the coronary arteries. The primary concern with unstable plaque is the risk of myocardial infarction, as it can lead to acute and severe cardiac damage.