A 54-year-old man has a myocardial infarction, resulting in left-sided heart failure.
The nurse caring for the man is most concerned that he will develop edema in what area of the body.

Choice A rationale

Unstable angina is characterized by sudden, severe chest pain that occurs at rest or with minimal exertion and is not relieved by nitroglycerin. It represents an imminent risk of myocardial infarction.

Choice B rationale

Ischemic heart disease can cause various types of angina, including stable, unstable, and Prinzmetal’s angina. The term “ischemic” refers to a lack of blood flow to the heart muscle, but this choice is too broad.

Choice C rationale

Stable angina occurs when there is an imbalance between myocardial oxygen supply and demand, typically during physical exertion or emotional stress. It is characterized by predictable chest pain that is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin.

Choice D rationale

Prinzmetal’s angina, also known as variant angina, is caused by a spasm in the coronary arteries, which leads to a temporary reduction in blood flow. It can occur at rest and is not necessarily related to the imbalance of myocardial supply and demand.

Choice A rationale

Myasthenia gravis primarily affects voluntary muscles, especially those involved in breathing and facial movements. Gastrointestinal (GI) and lower extremity muscles are generally not the main muscles affected by this condition. It is an autoimmune disorder that impacts the neuromuscular junction, where nerves communicate with muscles, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue.

Choice B rationale

The central nervous system (CNS), memory, and cognition are not typically impacted by myasthenia gravis. This disorder primarily involves peripheral nervous system issues that affect voluntary muscle control rather than cognitive functions. Myasthenia gravis does not cause alterations in memory or cognition as seen with central nervous system disorders like Alzheimer's disease.

Choice C rationale

Myasthenia gravis notably affects respiratory and facial muscles. The autoimmune attack on acetylcholine receptors leads to muscle weakness, particularly in muscles controlling eye movements, facial expressions, and breathing. Patients may experience difficulty breathing, swallowing, and maintaining an open airway due to this muscle weakness.

Choice D rationale

The cardiovascular system and postural muscles are not commonly affected by myasthenia gravis. This condition involves the neuromuscular junction and leads to fatigue in voluntary muscles, primarily those involved in eye movement, facial expressions, and respiration. Cardiovascular symptoms are not a direct consequence of myasthenia gravis.