A nurse in the emergency department is attending to a patient exhibiting symptoms of a myocardial infarction. Which of the following actions should the nurse prioritize?
Initiate oxygen therapy.
Obtain a blood sample.
Attach the leads for a 12-lead ECG.
Insert an IV catheter.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The priority action for a nurse when caring for a patient exhibiting symptoms of a myocardial infarction is to initiate oxygen therapy. Oxygen therapy is crucial because it increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can help reduce the heart’s workload and relieve pain. This intervention is aimed at reducing myocardial oxygen demand and improving oxygen supply to the ischemic myocardium.
Choice B rationale
Obtaining a blood sample is important as it can help diagnose a myocardial infarction. Blood tests can measure levels of certain proteins, such as troponins, in the bloodstream that can indicate heart muscle damage. However, this is not the immediate priority when compared to initiating oxygen therapy.
Choice C rationale
Attaching the leads for a 12-lead ECG is an important step in the assessment of a patient with suspected myocardial infarction. An ECG can show whether the heart muscle has been damaged and where the damage has occurred. However, this should be done after initiating oxygen therapy.
Choice D rationale
Inserting an IV catheter is a necessary step in the management of a myocardial infarction. It allows for the administration of medications and fluids as needed. However, it is not the first priority. The first priority is to stabilize the patient, which includes initiating oxygen therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Smoking, Diabetes, Atherosclerosis, and Weak pedal pulses.
Factors that contribute to poor circulation to the limb include:
- Smoking: It can cause constriction and damage to the blood vessels, leading to poor circulation.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to poor circulation.
- Atherosclerosis: This is a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow.
- Weak pedal pulses: This can be a sign of reduced blood flow to the lower extremities. A sodium-restricted diet (Choice B) is not typically associated with poor circulation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The priority nursing action for a patient in labor with an epidural anesthesia block and a blood pressure of 80/40 mm Hg is to place the patient in a lateral position. This can help improve maternal blood flow and fetal oxygenation.
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