what are the signs of an acute myocardial infarction

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2023 with NGN

1. What are the signs of an acute myocardial infarction?

A. Chest pain radiating to the arm and shortness of breath
B. Nausea, vomiting, and high fever
C. Headache, confusion, and low blood pressure
D. Increased heart rate and bradycardia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chest pain radiating to the arm and shortness of breath. These are classic signs of an acute myocardial infarction. Choice B is incorrect because nausea, vomiting, and high fever are not typical signs of a heart attack. Choice C is incorrect as headache, confusion, and low blood pressure are not specific to myocardial infarction. Choice D is incorrect because an acute myocardial infarction typically presents with an increased heart rate, not bradycardia.

2. A nurse on an acute unit has received a change of shift report for 4 clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?

A. A client who is 1 hr postoperative and has hypoactive bowel sounds.
B. A client who has a fractured left tibia and pallor in the affected extremity.
C. A client who had a cardiac catheterization 3 hr ago and has 3+ pedal pulses.
D. A client who has an elevated AST level following the administration of azithromycin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because pallor in an extremity after a fracture could indicate compromised circulation, making it a priority for assessment. Choice A is not the priority as hypoactive bowel sounds in a client 1 hr postoperative, while concerning, do not indicate a life-threatening condition. Choice C, a client who had a cardiac catheterization 3 hr ago and has 3+ pedal pulses, indicates good perfusion and does not require immediate attention. Choice D, a client with an elevated AST level following the administration of azithromycin, may require further assessment but is not as urgent as the client with potential compromised circulation in choice B.

3. A nurse is reinforcing teaching about using a cane with a client who has left-leg weakness. What instruction should the nurse give?

A. Use the cane on the weaker side
B. Advance the cane and the strong leg together
C. Maintain two points of support on the floor at all times
D. Advance the cane 30 to 45 cm with each step

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with left-leg weakness using a cane is to maintain two points of support on the floor at all times. This technique provides stability and support while walking. Choice A is incorrect because the cane should be used on the stronger side to support the weaker leg. Choice B is incorrect as advancing the cane and the strong leg together may not provide adequate support and balance. Choice D is incorrect as the distance to advance the cane with each step can vary depending on the individual's needs and abilities.

4. After sustaining a closed head injury and numerous lacerations and abrasions to the face and neck, a five-year-old child is admitted to the emergency room. The client is unconscious and has minimal response to noxious stimuli. Which of the following assessments, if observed by the nurse three hours after admission, should be reported to the physician?

A. The client has slight edema of the eyelids
B. There is clear fluid draining from the client's right ear
C. There is some bleeding from the child's lacerations
D. The client withdraws in response to painful stimuli

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Clear fluid draining from the ear can indicate cerebrospinal fluid leakage, which is a serious concern after a head injury. This leakage can signify a skull fracture or damage to the meninges, potentially leading to infection. Therefore, it should be reported immediately for further evaluation and management. Choices A, C, and D are typical findings after head trauma and are not as urgent as the presence of clear fluid draining from the ear.

5. A nurse is planning care for a school-age child who is 4 hr postoperative following perforated appendicitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

A. Offer small amounts of clear liquids 6 hr following surgery.
B. Give cromolyn nebulizer solution every 6 hr.
C. Apply a warm compress to the operative site every 4 hr.
D. Administer analgesics on a scheduled basis for the first 24 hr.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Administering analgesics on a scheduled basis for the first 24 hours is crucial to ensure adequate pain control in the immediate postoperative period. Choice A is incorrect because clear liquids are typically initiated gradually and advanced as tolerated but not specifically at 6 hours post-surgery. Choice B is incorrect as cromolyn nebulizer solution is not indicated for postoperative pain management in this scenario. Choice C is incorrect as applying a warm compress may not be appropriate for the operative site after appendicitis surgery and can potentially increase the risk of infection.