A nurse is assessing a client with suspected myocardial infarction (MI). Which assessment finding is most indicative of an acute MI?

Sharp, stabbing chest pain.

Chest pain relieved by rest and nitroglycerin.

Sudden, severe chest pain radiating to the back.

Mild, intermittent chest discomfort during activity.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

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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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because beta-blockers do not directly dilate blood vessels. They primarily work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart and blood vessels, leading to decreased heart rate and reduced blood pressure.

B) This choice is incorrect because beta-blockers do not directly affect cholesterol levels or prevent the formation of plaques in arteries. Their primary action is on the cardiovascular system, particularly the heart and blood pressure.

C) This choice is correct. Beta-blockers are commonly prescribed after an MI to reduce the workload of the heart and lower blood pressure. By blocking the effects of adrenaline, they help slow down the heart rate and reduce the force of contraction, thereby decreasing myocardial oxygen demand and improving the heart's efficiency.

D) This choice is incorrect because beta-blockers do not directly prevent blood clot formation in coronary arteries. Anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications are used to reduce the risk of clot formation in individuals at high risk for recurrent heart attacks.

A. "Stress causes the heart to pump faster, increasing blood flow to the body." B. "It leads to vasodilation of the coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart." C. "Stress triggers the release of adrenaline, which can constrict coronary arteries and increase heart rate." D. "It suppresses the sympathetic nervous system, leading to decreased heart rate and blood pressure."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because stress does not cause the heart to pump faster. While stress can activate the sympathetic nervous system and increase heart rate, the primary impact on the heart is related to hormonal responses.

B) This choice is incorrect because stress-induced vasodilation of coronary arteries is not a typical response. Instead, stress can lead to vasoconstriction, potentially reducing blood flow to the heart.

C) This choice is correct. During stress, the body releases adrenaline (epinephrine) and other stress hormones, which can lead to vasoconstriction of coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle. Additionally, the release of adrenaline can increase heart rate, resulting in increased myocardial oxygen demand.

D) This choice is incorrect because stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure rather than suppressing these responses.

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A nurse is assessing a client with suspected myocardial infarction (MI). Which assessment finding is most indicative of an acute MI?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client who experienced an MI is prescribed beta-blocker medication. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of this medication. How should the nurse respond?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is providing education to a client with angina about stress management techniques. The client asks the nurse how stress affects the heart. How should the nurse respond?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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