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)?
Myoglobin.
C-reactive protein (CRP).
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP).
Troponin.
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because myoglobin is a cardiac biomarker that may be elevated in MI, but it lacks specificity and can also be elevated in other conditions like skeletal muscle injury.
B) This choice is incorrect because C-reactive protein (CRP) is an inflammatory marker and is not specific to MI. It may be elevated in various inflammatory conditions.
C) This choice is incorrect because brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a biomarker associated with heart failure and is not specific to diagnosing MI.
D) This choice is correct. Troponin is the most specific biomarker for diagnosing MI. Elevated troponin levels in the blood indicate cardiac muscle damage, making it a reliable marker for myocardial infarction. Troponin levels rise shortly after the onset of MI and remain elevated for several days, making it valuable in both early and delayed MI detection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because a stress test is not primarily used to assess for the presence of atherosclerotic plaques. It is used to evaluate the heart's response to increased demand and identify exercise-induced changes in the ECG, which may indicate myocardial ischemia.
B) This choice is incorrect because a stress test does not measure cardiac biomarker levels in the blood. Cardiac biomarkers like troponin are typically measured through blood tests to diagnose myocardial infarction (MI).
C) This choice is correct. The primary purpose of a stress test is to evaluate the heart's response to increased demand, such as physical exercise or the administration of medication that simulates exercise. During the test, the client's heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG are monitored for signs of ischemia.
D) This choice is incorrect because a stress test is not used to visualize the coronary arteries for blockages. It is a non-invasive test primarily used to assess the heart's functional capacity.
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.
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.