A client with suspected myocardial infarction (MI) is admitted to the emergency department. The nurse asks the client about the onset and duration of chest pain. Which response should the nurse consider as indicative of an MI?

"The pain started suddenly and has lasted for 30 minutes."

"I have been experiencing chest discomfort for the past few days."

"The pain comes and goes, lasting only a few seconds at a time."

"I had a similar episode of chest pain a few months ago."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A) This choice is correct. The sudden onset of chest pain lasting for 30 minutes is a typical clinical manifestation of myocardial infarction (MI). The duration and intensity of chest pain are important indicators that suggest an acute cardiac event.

B) This choice is incorrect because chest discomfort lasting for a few days may be more characteristic of unstable angina, not an MI. Unstable angina is also a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention, but it is not synonymous with MI.

C) This choice is incorrect because chest pain that comes and goes, lasting only a few seconds at a time, is not typical of an MI. Such symptoms may indicate other non-cardiac conditions or stable angina.

D) This choice is incorrect because a similar episode of chest pain a few months ago is not indicative of the current acute event. The nurse should focus on the client's current symptoms and their acute presentation to determine the appropriate interventions.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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.

A. Encourage the client to stop taking the medications if side effects occur. B. Explain that side effects are rare and unlikely to happen. C. Provide information about possible side effects and when to report them to the healthcare provider. D. Suggest the client take over-the-counter medications to manage any side effects.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because encouraging the client to stop taking medications without consulting the healthcare provider can be dangerous, especially after an MI. Medications prescribed after an MI are essential for managing cardiovascular risks and should not be discontinued without medical advice.

B) This choice is incorrect because it is not appropriate to downplay the potential side effects of medications. While side effects may be uncommon, it is essential to provide accurate information and address the client's concerns.

C) This choice is correct. Providing information about possible side effects and instructing the client to report any adverse reactions to the healthcare provider is essential. It empowers the client to recognize and manage potential side effects appropriately, ensuring that any concerns are addressed promptly by the healthcare team.

D) This choice is incorrect because suggesting over-the-counter medications without consulting the healthcare provider can be unsafe and may interact with prescribed medications. It is essential to address side effects with the healthcare team for appropriate management and adjustments to the medication regimen if needed.

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A client with suspected myocardial infarction (MI) is admitted to the emergency department. The nurse asks the client about the onset and duration of chest pain. Which response should the nurse consider as indicative of an MI?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is providing education to a client who recently had an MI about the importance of medication adherence. The client expresses concerns about potential side effects of the prescribed medications. What should the nurse do to address the client's concerns effectively?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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A nurse is caring for a client admitted with myocardial infarction (MI). The client's blood pressure drops, and the client becomes restless and anxious. What intervention should the nurse initiate first?

A nurse is caring for a client admitted with chest pain, and the healthcare provider orders a cardiac biomarker test. Which biomarker is most specific for diagnosing a myocardial infarction (MI)?

A client is experiencing chest pain that subsides with rest and nitroglycerin administration. The nurse suspects angina pectoris. What type of angina does this presentation most likely indicate?