An emergency department nurse is assessing an adult woman for a suspected myocardial infarction (MI). When planning the assessment, the nurse should be aware that female patients may have which of the following symptoms for an MI? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

A. Maintaining a diet high in dairy to increase protein necessary to prevent organ damage

Explanation: This statement is not accurate. While a balanced diet is important, there is no specific recommendation to maintain a diet high in dairy to prevent organ damage related to hypertension.

B. Use of strategies to prevent falls stemming from postural hypotension

Explanation: This is a correct and important consideration. Beta-blockers can cause postural hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), and strategies to prevent falls, such as rising slowly from a sitting or lying position, are crucial.

C. Limiting exercise to avoid injury that can be caused by increased intracranial pressure

Explanation: This statement is not accurate. Exercise is generally beneficial for individuals with hypertension, and beta-blockers do not cause increased intracranial pressure.

D. Increasing fluids to avoid extracellular volume depletion from the diuretic effects of the beta-blocker

Explanation: This statement is not accurate. Beta-blockers are not typically associated with diuretic effects. Diuretics are a different class of medications commonly used for hypertension.

A. Visible clubbing of the fingers and toes

Clubbing is a condition characterized by changes in the shape and appearance of the fingers and toes. It involves enlargement of the fingertips and the nails becoming curved and rounded. Clubbing is not typically associated with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD). It is more commonly seen in conditions such as chronic respiratory or cardiovascular diseases.

B. Unequal peripheral pulses between extremities

Unequal peripheral pulses can be indicative of vascular abnormalities. However, in PAD, the characteristic finding is diminished or absent pulses rather than unequal pulses between extremities. Other conditions, such as arterial embolism or thrombosis, may present with unequal pulses.

C. Reddened extremities with muscle atrophy

Reddened extremities and muscle atrophy are not typical findings in PAD. These symptoms are more characteristic of conditions associated with chronic inflammation or compromised venous circulation, such as chronic venous insufficiency or venous stasis.

D. Loss of hair on the distal extremities

Loss of hair on the distal extremities, particularly on the lower legs and feet, is a common finding in PAD. It results from reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the hair follicles in the affected areas.