A patient who has been experiencing chest pain for several hours is admitted with a diagnosis of rule out acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Which laboratory test is most specific for the nurse to monitor in determining whether the patient has had an AMI?
Homocysteine.
C-reactive protein.
Myoglobin.
Cardiac-specific troponin.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Homocysteine is an amino acid that your body uses to make protein and to build and maintain tissue. But too much homocysteine in your blood might increase your risk of heart disease.
However, it is not the most specific marker for AMI.
Choice B rationale
C-reactive protein (CRP) is produced by the liver and its level rises when there is inflammation in your body. While its level can increase in those with a heart attack, it is not the most specific marker for AMI6.
Choice C rationale
Myoglobin is a small protein that stores oxygen. It is measured occasionally. Myoglobin is sometimes measured in addition to troponin to help diagnose a heart attack. However, it is not as specific as cardiac-specific troponin.
Choice D rationale
Cardiac-specific troponin is a cardio-specific, highly sensitive marker for myocardial damage. The absolute cardiospecificity of cTnI allows the diagnosis of myocardial infarction distinct from muscle lesions and non-cardiac surgery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart condition that presents with a combination of four defects in the structure of the heart. The most common symptoms in a newborn with this condition include cyanosis (bluish color of the skin due to reduced oxygen in the blood) and hypoxia (low levels of oxygen in the body)34567.
Choice B rationale
While a high-pitched cry can be a sign of distress in a newborn, it is not specifically associated with tetralogy of Fallot. Dyspnea (difficulty breathing) can occur in severe cases, but it is not one of the primary symptoms of this condition.
Choice C rationale
Leg pain and twitching are not typical symptoms of tetralogy of Fallot. These symptoms could be indicative of other conditions, but they are not associated with this specific congenital heart defect.
Choice D rationale
Epistaxis (nosebleeds) and anemia are not typical symptoms of tetralogy of Fallot. While these conditions can occur in children for various reasons, they are not directly related to this specific congenital heart defect.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Anxiety is a common response to the stress of hospitalization and illness, especially in the context of a serious condition like ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).
However, while anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms and should be addressed, it is not the primary problem in this scenario.
Choice B rationale
Acute pain is a common symptom of STEMI, as the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen. However, the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate readings suggest a more immediate concern related to the cardiovascular system.
Choice C rationale
Decreased cardiac output is likely the priority problem for this patient. The patient’s low blood pressure (86/40 mm Hg) and high heart rate (132 beats/min) suggest that the heart is not pumping enough blood to meet the body’s needs, which is a direct consequence of the STEMI1. This can lead to organ failure and other serious complications if not addressed promptly.
Choice D rationale
Stress management is an important aspect of long-term care for patients with heart disease, as chronic stress can contribute to further heart damage. However, in the acute phase of a STEMI, the focus is on stabilizing the patient’s condition and preventing complications.
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