A nurse in the emergency department is attending to a patient exhibiting symptoms of a myocardial infarction. Which of the following actions should the nurse prioritize?
Initiate oxygen therapy.
Obtain a blood sample.
Attach the leads for a 12-lead ECG.
Insert an IV catheter.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The priority action for a nurse when caring for a patient exhibiting symptoms of a myocardial infarction is to initiate oxygen therapy. Oxygen therapy is crucial because it increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can help reduce the heart’s workload and relieve pain. This intervention is aimed at reducing myocardial oxygen demand and improving oxygen supply to the ischemic myocardium.
Choice B rationale
Obtaining a blood sample is important as it can help diagnose a myocardial infarction. Blood tests can measure levels of certain proteins, such as troponins, in the bloodstream that can indicate heart muscle damage. However, this is not the immediate priority when compared to initiating oxygen therapy.
Choice C rationale
Attaching the leads for a 12-lead ECG is an important step in the assessment of a patient with suspected myocardial infarction. An ECG can show whether the heart muscle has been damaged and where the damage has occurred. However, this should be done after initiating oxygen therapy.
Choice D rationale
Inserting an IV catheter is a necessary step in the management of a myocardial infarction. It allows for the administration of medications and fluids as needed. However, it is not the first priority. The first priority is to stabilize the patient, which includes initiating oxygen therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Padding the mattress in a baby’s crib can pose a suffocation risk and is not recommended for crib safety22.
Choice B rationale
Placing a baby on their stomach for sleep, known as prone sleeping, increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Babies should always be placed on their back to sleep22.
Choice C rationale
Removing extra blankets from a baby’s crib is a key part of crib safety. Loose bedding can pose a suffocation risk22.
Choice D rationale
Placing a baby’s crib next to a heater could lead to overheating, which is a risk factor for SIDS. It’s important to keep the baby’s sleep environment at a comfortable temperature22.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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