Review the EKG shown below, which displays rapid, erratic electrical impulses causing ineffective quivering instead of coordinated contraction.
What should be the nurse’s initial intervention?

Choice A rationale

Aspirin's antipyretic action reduces fever by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the hypothalamus, but this is not the primary rationale for post-MI use. Normal body temperature: 36.5-37.5°C.

Choice B rationale

Aspirin acts as an antiplatelet agent by irreversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) enzyme, reducing thromboxane A2 production, thereby preventing platelet aggregation and thrombus formation. This helps reduce MI risk.

Choice C rationale

As an analgesic, aspirin inhibits COX enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis and alleviating pain, but this is not the primary reason for its use in MI patients. Pain relief is a secondary benefit.

Choice D rationale

Aspirin's anti-inflammatory properties result from inhibiting COX enzymes and reducing prostaglandin synthesis, but this effect is not the primary rationale for its use post-MI. It helps but is not the main goal.

Choice A rationale

Anginal pain typically lasts less than 20 minutes. If chest pain exceeds this duration, it may suggest myocardial infarction or another severe cardiac event rather than stable angina pectoris.

Choice B rationale

Exertion increases myocardial oxygen demand, while anxiety triggers a sympathetic response, both of which can precipitate anginal pain due to the heart's inability to meet increased oxygen requirements.

Choice C rationale

Angina pectoris usually resolves with rest or administration of nitrates, which dilate coronary arteries and improve blood flow. Persistent pain may indicate unstable angina or myocardial infarction.

Choice D rationale

Anginal pain is often relieved by rest and the use of nitrates, not necessarily by changes in posture such as sitting up. This is more characteristic of pulmonary or pleuritic pain. .