For a patient recovering from an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) who inquires about safely resuming sexual intercourse, what would be the best response from the nurse?

Choice A rationale
Sexual activity uses about as much energy as climbing two flights of stairs. This comparison can help patients understand that if they can perform activities of similar exertion without chest pain or undue fatigue, it may be safe to resume sexual activity. However, patients should always consult with their healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
Choice B rationale
While holding and cuddling are good ways to maintain intimacy after a heart attack, this does not directly address the patient’s question about safely resuming sexual intercourse.
Choice C rationale
While it is true that the doctor will provide sexual guidelines when the patient’s heart is strong enough, this response does not provide the patient with immediate guidance or reassurance.
Choice D rationale
While most patients are able to enjoy intercourse without any complications, this statement may be too general and does not take into account the individual patient’s health status and recovery progress.

Choice A rationale
Bleeding from the gums is a sign of excessive bleeding, which can be a side effect of thrombolytic therapy. Thrombolytic agents work by dissolving blood clots, but they can also interfere with the body’s normal clotting mechanism, leading to bleeding. If a patient experiences unusual or excessive bleeding, it may be necessary to stop the infusion of the thrombolytic agent.
Choice B rationale
An increase in blood pressure is not typically a reason to stop the infusion of a thrombolytic agent in a patient with an acute myocardial infarction. While blood pressure should be monitored closely during thrombolytic therapy, an increase in blood pressure is not a common side effect.
Choice C rationale
A nonsustained episode of ventricular tachycardia is not typically a reason to stop the infusion of a thrombolytic agent in a patient with an acute myocardial infarction. While arrhythmias can occur during a myocardial infarction, they are not a common side effect of thrombolytic therapy.
Choice D rationale
A decreased level of consciousness can be a sign of many serious conditions, including bleeding in the brain. However, it is not typically a reason to stop the infusion of a thrombolytic agent unless it is accompanied by other signs of excessive bleeding.