A patient who has had 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?.
Cardiac-specific troponin.
Myoglobin.
Homocysteine.
C-reactive protein.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Cardiac-specific troponin is a protein that is released into the bloodstream when there is damage to the heart muscle, such as during an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). It is considered the most specific marker for AMI because it is found only in heart muscle. The normal range for troponin I is between 0 and 0.04 ng/mL2.
Choice B rationale:
Myoglobin is a protein found in heart and skeletal muscles. While it can be elevated in AMI, it is not as specific as troponin because it is also found in skeletal muscles. The normal levels of myoglobin are 25 to 72 ng/mL4.
Choice C rationale:
Homocysteine is an amino acid in the blood, and high levels can increase the risk of heart disease. However, it is not specific for AMI5. The normal range of homocysteine levels are less than 15 micromoles per liter.
Choice D rationale:
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker of inflammation in the body and can be elevated in various conditions, including heart disease. However, it is not specific for AMI6. The normal CRP level is less than 0.9 milligrams per deciliter.
So, the correct answer is A, after analyzing all choices.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","E","G","H"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The apical pulse rate increased from 90/min to 112/min, which is still within the normal range (60-100 beats per minute). Therefore, it’s not a critical change.
Choice B rationale:
The adolescent’s position, supine with legs straight, is the recommended position after cardiac catheterization to prevent bleeding from the femoral artery puncture site.
Choice C rationale:
The pulses of the right extremity decreased to 2+, indicating reduced blood flow. This is a critical finding and should be reported.
Choice D rationale:
The pain increased from 0 to 2 on a scale of 0 to 10. While any increase in pain should be monitored, a score of 2 is not typically considered severe.
Choice E rationale:
The pressure dressing became saturated with bloody drainage, indicating possible bleeding. This is a critical finding and should be reported.
Choice F rationale:
The respiratory rate increased from 16/min to 18/min, which is still within the normal range (12-20 breaths per minute). Therefore, it’s not a critical change.
Choice G rationale:
The blood pressure decreased from 120/76 mm Hg to 100/52 mm Hg. A significant drop in blood pressure can indicate blood loss or shock. This is a critical finding and should be reported.
Choice H rationale:
The right lower extremity became cool and pale, indicating reduced blood flow. This is a critical finding and should be reported.
So, the correct answer is Choice C, E, G, H, after analyzing all choices. .
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A patient who had a myocardial infarction (MI) 4 days ago and is anxious about today’s planned discharge would need reassurance and education, but it’s not an immediate concern.
Choice B rationale:
A patient with unstable angina who has just returned after a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is at risk for hemorrhage from the arterial access site. Immediate assessment of blood pressure, pulses, and the access site is required.
Choice C rationale:
A patient with variant angina who is scheduled to receive nifedipine (Procardia) would need monitoring, but it’s not the most urgent.
Choice D rationale:
A patient with pericarditis complaining of sharp, stabbing chest pain would need evaluation, but the risk of complications is less immediate than for Choice B1.
So, the correct answer is B, after analyzing all choices.
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