Myocardial Infarction Nursing Quiz

Which of the following is a classic symptom of myocardial infarction?

• Sudden onset of chest pain

• Productive cough

• Pruritus (itching)

• Polyuria

Answer explanation

The classic symptom of myocardial infarction is the sudden onset of chest pain, often described as a feeling of pressure or squeezing. Other options like productive cough, pruritus, and polyuria are not typical symptoms.

Which EKG change is most commonly associated with acute myocardial infarction?

• ST segment elevation

• Prolonged PR interval

• Peaked P waves

• Shortened QT interval

Answer explanation

ST segment elevation is a key indicator of acute myocardial infarction, reflecting myocardial injury. Other options like prolonged PR interval and peaked P waves are not typically associated with this condition.

Which medication is routinely administered to patients with suspected myocardial infarction to reduce platelet aggregation?

• Aspirin

• Furosemide

• Metformin

• Amoxicillin

Answer explanation

Aspirin is routinely administered to patients with suspected myocardial infarction because it effectively reduces platelet aggregation, helping to prevent further clot formation and improve blood flow.

Which of the following is a common complication following a myocardial infarction?

• Heart failure

• Asthma

• Diabetes insipidus

• Appendicitis

Answer explanation

Heart failure is a common complication after a myocardial infarction due to damage to the heart muscle, which can impair its ability to pump blood effectively. The other options are not related to myocardial infarction.

Which patient assessment technique is most appropriate for detecting fluid overload in a patient with myocardial infarction?

• Auscultation of lung sounds

• Inspection of the abdomen

• Palpation of the thyroid gland

• Percussion of the sinuses

Answer explanation

Auscultation of lung sounds is crucial for detecting fluid overload, as it can reveal crackles or wheezes indicative of pulmonary congestion, a common complication in patients with myocardial infarction.

Which of the following nursing interventions is most appropriate immediately after a patient is diagnosed with myocardial infarction?

• Administer supplemental oxygen as ordered

• Encourage vigorous physical activity

• Withhold all medications

• Place the patient in a prone position

Answer explanation

Administering supplemental oxygen is crucial after a myocardial infarction to improve oxygen delivery to the heart and reduce ischemia. The other options are inappropriate and could worsen the patient's condition.

A patient with myocardial infarction is prescribed nitroglycerin. What is the primary purpose of this medication?

• To dilate coronary arteries and improve blood flow

• To increase heart rate

• To decrease urine output

• To suppress the immune system

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of nitroglycerin is to dilate coronary arteries, which improves blood flow to the heart muscle, alleviating chest pain and reducing the workload on the heart during a myocardial infarction.

Which EKG finding would indicate a previous (old) myocardial infarction?

• Pathological Q waves

• Tall, peaked T waves

• Shortened PR interval

• U waves

Answer explanation

Pathological Q waves are indicative of previous myocardial infarction, as they represent necrosis of heart tissue. Other options like tall T waves or U waves do not specifically indicate an old infarction.

When educating a patient post-myocardial infarction, which lifestyle modification should the nurse emphasize to reduce future risk?

• Smoking cessation

• Increased salt intake

• Sedentary lifestyle

• High-fat diet

Answer explanation

Smoking cessation is crucial post-myocardial infarction as it significantly reduces the risk of future cardiac events. Increased salt intake, a sedentary lifestyle, and a high-fat diet can worsen heart health.

A nurse is monitoring a patient with myocardial infarction for arrhythmias. Which assessment finding should prompt immediate intervention?

• Ventricular fibrillation on EKG

• Sinus bradycardia at 60 bpm

• Occasional premature atrial contractions

• First-degree AV block

Answer explanation

Ventricular fibrillation on EKG is a life-threatening arrhythmia that requires immediate intervention. It indicates the heart is not effectively pumping blood, necessitating urgent medical action.