Click to indicate if the listed symptoms are consistent with angina, myocardial infarction, or both. Each column must have at least one response option selected
Pain relived by nitroglycerin
Epigastric distress
Pain only relieved by opioids
Chest pain radiating down arm
Occurring without cause
Feelings of fear
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"A,B"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"A,B"},"F":{"answers":"A"}}
- Pain relieved by nitroglycerin (Angina): Nitroglycerin works by dilating coronary arteries and reducing myocardial oxygen demand. In stable angina, the underlying problem is temporary myocardial ischemia (reduced blood flow without tissue death). Because the myocardium is still viable, improving blood flow quickly relieves the pain. In contrast, during a myocardial infarction (MI), there is prolonged ischemia with myocardial cell death, so nitroglycerin may provide little or only partial relief.
- Epigastric distress (Both): Both angina and MI can present with atypical symptoms, especially involving the gastrointestinal system. Reduced oxygen supply to the heart can stimulate the vagus nerve, leading to symptoms such as epigastric pain, nausea, or indigestion-like discomfort. This overlap makes it important not to dismiss GI symptoms, particularly in cardiac-risk clients.
- Pain only relieved by opioids (Myocardial Infarction): In MI, the pain is typically severe, persistent, and unrelenting, due to actual myocardial tissue injury and necrosis. Nitroglycerin is often insufficient. Opioids (e.g., morphine) are required because they reduce pain, decrease anxiety, and lower sympathetic workload, helping reduce cardiac oxygen demand.
- Chest pain radiating down arm (Myocardial Infarction): MI pain commonly radiates to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back due to shared nerve pathways (referred pain). While angina can occasionally radiate, this classic radiation pattern—especially when severe and prolonged—is more strongly associated with MI.
- Occurring without cause: Unstable angina and MI can both occur at rest or without clear exertional triggers. Stable angina usually occurs with exertion.
- Feelings of fear (Myocardial Infarction): Clients experiencing MI often report a sense of impending doom. This is caused by a strong sympathetic nervous system response (release of catecholamines like epinephrine), along with severe pain and decreased cardiac output. This psychological and physiological response is much more intense than what is typically seen in angina.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While prostate regrowth can occur over time due to dihydrotestosterone, this is a long-term process and unlikely to explain acute postoperative urinary and erectile difficulties immediately following TURP.
B. Excess testosterone does not “overwhelm the bladder” or directly reduce penile perfusion. This explanation is physiologically inaccurate and not supported by current evidence.
C. Androgen-sensitive tumors are associated with prostate cancer, not benign prostatic hyperplasia. The client underwent TURP for BPH, so tumor obstruction is not relevant in this context.
D. TURP involves resection near the prostatic urethra and surrounding nerve fibers (especially the cavernous nerves responsible for erectile function). Postoperative inflammation and temporary nerve irritation can cause weak urinary stream, urgency, and erectile dysfunction. These symptoms are typically transient but may require monitoring and supportive interventions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Demonstrating proper use of the incentive spirometer indicates that the client understands how to use the device, but it does not confirm that the intervention has achieved its intended physiological outcome.
B. Reporting regular use shows adherence to the prescribed frequency, but self-report alone does not guarantee improved lung function or prevention of complications.
C. A frequent productive cough may indicate retained secretions or an underlying pulmonary issue. While coughing can help clear secretions, its presence alone does not confirm the effectiveness of the incentive spirometer.
D. This is the best outcome statement because the ultimate goal of incentive spirometry is to improve lung expansion, prevent atelectasis, and maintain clear airways. Clear bilateral breath sounds on auscultation indicate that the intervention has been physiologically effective in promoting adequate ventilation and oxygenation, demonstrating a successful outcome of the intervention.
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