A client is admitted with chest pain, and the nurse is assessing for clinical manifestations of myocardial infarction (MI). Which sign is characteristic of an MI but not usually seen in stable angina?
Pain relieved by rest and nitroglycerin.
Diaphoresis and nausea.
Chest pain triggered by emotional stress.
Shortness of breath and wheezing.
The Correct Answer is B
A) This choice is incorrect because chest pain relieved by rest and nitroglycerin is characteristic of stable angina, not an MI. Stable angina is triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress and is usually relieved by rest and nitroglycerin use.
B) This choice is correct. Diaphoresis (profuse sweating) and nausea are clinical manifestations commonly associated with an MI but not usually seen in stable angina. These symptoms are a result of the sympathetic nervous system's response to the heart muscle's decreased oxygen supply during an MI.
C) This choice is incorrect because chest pain triggered by emotional stress is characteristic of stable angina, not an MI. Emotional stress can cause vasospasms in the coronary arteries, leading to angina episodes.
D) This choice is incorrect because shortness of breath and wheezing may occur in both stable angina and MI, especially if the heart's pumping ability is compromised. These symptoms are not specific to MI and can also be seen in other cardiac and respiratory conditions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because fibrinolytic therapy is not used to reduce heart rate and blood pressure. Its primary purpose is to dissolve blood clots that are causing the myocardial infarction.
B) This choice is correct. Fibrinolytic therapy, also known as thrombolytic therapy, is used to break down existing blood clots in coronary arteries during an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). By dissolving the clot, blood flow to the heart muscle can be restored and prevent further damage.
C) This choice is incorrect because stabilizing the heart's electrical activity is not the primary purpose of fibrinolytic therapy. It is used to address the mechanical obstruction caused by the clot in coronary arteries.
D) This choice is incorrect because although fibrinolytic therapy does improve blood flow to the heart muscle by dissolving clots, its primary purpose is not to improve oxygen supply directly. Rather, it aims to restore blood flow by eliminating the clot causing the infarction.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because sharp, stabbing chest pain is not the typical presentation of an acute MI. It is more common in conditions like pleuritis or pneumothorax.
B) This choice is incorrect because chest pain relieved by rest and nitroglycerin is more characteristic of stable angina, not an acute MI. Acute MI pain is typically not relieved by these measures.
C) This choice is correct. Sudden, severe chest pain that radiates to the back is a classic presentation of an acute myocardial infarction. The pain is often described as crushing or pressure-like and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, diaphoresis, and nausea.
D) This choice is incorrect because mild, intermittent chest discomfort during activity is more typical of stable angina, not an acute MI. Acute MI pain is usually more severe, prolonged, and occurs at rest or with minimal exertion.
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