A 24-year-old female client comes to the ambulatory care center in moderate distress with a probable diagnosis of acute cystitis.
Which symptom should the nurse expect the client to report during the assessment?

Choice B rationale

Radiating pain to the left arm is a classic symptom of a myocardial infarction (MI). This pain occurs due to the heart muscle not receiving enough oxygen, often because of a blockage in one or more coronary arteries. The pain can radiate to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back, and is a key indicator for diagnosing an MI.

Choice A rationale

Nausea and vomiting can occur during an MI but are not the most distinctive symptoms for diagnosis. They can also be associated with other conditions, making them less specific indicators of MI.

Choice C rationale

Shortness of breath is a common symptom during an MI, resulting from reduced oxygen supply to the heart. However, while it is an important clinical manifestation, it can also be associated with other cardiac or respiratory conditions.

Choice D rationale

Headache is not a typical symptom of an MI. It is less commonly associated with heart attacks and can be caused by a wide range of other factors, making it an unreliable symptom for diagnosing MI.

Choice A rationale

Taking nitroglycerin when experiencing chest pain is correct as it helps to relieve the pain by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the heart.

Choice B rationale

Calling 911 if chest pain does not improve after taking nitroglycerin is correct and necessary to seek immediate medical assistance.

Choice C rationale

Storing nitroglycerin tablets in a dark, cool place is correct to maintain their potency, as light and heat can degrade the medication.

Choice D rationale

Taking up to three doses of nitroglycerin five minutes apart is correct; however, if the pain persists after one dose, the patient should call 911 immediately rather than waiting for all three doses to be taken.