A client is admitted with chest pain, and the nurse suspects angina pectoris. Which diagnostic test would the nurse expect to be ordered as an initial assessment?
Troponin levels.
Stress test.
Coronary angiography.
Cardiac catheterization.
The Correct Answer is A
A) This choice is correct. Measuring troponin levels in the blood is a common initial diagnostic test for evaluating suspected angina pectoris or myocardial infarction (MI). Troponins are specific markers released into the bloodstream when there is cardiac muscle damage, and elevated troponin levels indicate myocardial injury.
B) This choice is incorrect because a stress test is used to assess the heart's response to increased demand and is typically performed after the initial evaluation, such as measuring troponin levels, to confirm the presence of angina or MI.
C) This choice is incorrect because coronary angiography is an invasive procedure used to visualize the coronary arteries and assess for blockages. It is not typically the initial diagnostic test for angina pectoris or MI.
D) This choice is incorrect because cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure used to measure pressures within the heart and evaluate coronary artery blockages. It is not typically the initial diagnostic test for angina pectoris or MI.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because while aspirin is important for clients with angina, the priority teaching point is the use of nitroglycerin for chest pain relief during angina episodes.
B) This choice is incorrect because keeping a log of triggers can be helpful for managing angina, but it is not the priority teaching point regarding the immediate relief of chest pain.
C) This choice is incorrect because limiting physical activity to avoid exertion is not the primary management strategy for angina. Moderate exercise, as tolerated, is beneficial for clients with stable angina.
D) This choice is correct. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator that helps to relax and widen blood vessels, improving blood flow and relieving chest pain during an angina episode. Teaching the client to use nitroglycerin as needed for chest pain relief is a priority in angina management.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because administering sublingual nitroglycerin is an important intervention to relieve chest pain in clients with angina pectoris, but obtaining a 12-lead ECG is the priority in a client suspected of experiencing an MI. The ECG helps in diagnosing MI and determining the appropriate treatment plan.
B) This choice is correct. The priority nursing intervention during the initial assessment of a client with suspected MI is to obtain a 12-lead ECG. The ECG provides crucial information about cardiac electrical activity and helps identify ST-segment elevation, indicating myocardial ischemia or injury.
C) This choice is incorrect because initiating intravenous (IV) access is an essential step in the management of an MI, but it is not the priority over obtaining a 12-lead ECG.
D) This choice is incorrect because administering aspirin is an essential intervention during an MI to help reduce platelet aggregation and prevent further clot formation. However, obtaining a 12-lead ECG takes precedence in the initial assessment to confirm the diagnosis and guide further interventions.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.