The nurse teaches a student nurse about diagnostic studies used for acute coronary syndrome. Which statement made by the student nurse indicates effective learning?

Resumption of sexual activity after a myocardial infarction (MI) is an important topic to address as part of the overall recovery and rehabilitation process. It should be discussed along with other physical activities during the patient's recovery. The nurse should initiate the discussion in a supportive and non-judgmental manner, addressing the patient's concerns, fears, and questions about sexual activity after an MI.

Sexual activity is a normal part of life, and patients may have concerns about the safety and appropriateness of engaging in sexual activity after a significant cardiac event like an MI. Discussing it along with other physical activities helps normalize the topic and allows the nurse to provide accurate information, address any misconceptions, and offer guidance on when and how to resume sexual activity safely. Patients should be encouraged to have an open dialogue with their healthcare provider about their concerns and any specific questions they may have related to resuming sexual activity.

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. It can cause chest pain, which is often worsened by deep breathing or coughing. The goal of treatment for pericarditis is to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

In this case, the client's pain level is reported as 6 out of 10. As per the PRN (as-needed) medication options given:

C) Oral ibuprofen (Motrin) 600 mg: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in cases of pericarditis. It is an appropriate choice for this client's pain level of 6 out of 10.

A) IV morphine sulfate 4 mg: IV morphine is a potent opioid analgesic and may be appropriate for severe pain. However, in this case, the client's pain level is moderate (6 out of 10), and it is not the first-line medication for pericarditis pain.

B) Oral acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg: Acetaminophen is a mild analgesic and antipyretic that can be effective for mild to moderate pain. However, in this situation, the client's pain is moderate (6 out of 10), and acetaminophen alone may not provide adequate relief for pericarditis pain.

D) Fentanyl 1 mg IV: Fentanyl is another potent opioid analgesic. However, similar to morphine, it may be more appropriate for severe pain, not moderate pain like in this scenario.

Based on the client's pain level and the goal of reducing inflammation, the most appropriate PRN medication for the nurse to give is oral ibuprofen (Motrin) 600 mg.