A nurse is teaching the partner of a client who had an acute myocardial infarction (MI) about the reason blood was drawn from the client. Which of the following statements should the nurse make regarding cardiac enzyme studies?

Choice A reason:

This statement is incorrect because it trivializes the patient's concerns and implies that enjoyment is the primary goal, which is not the case. The main purpose of cardiac rehabilitation is to improve health outcomes, not just to make the routine enjoyable.

Choice B reason:

While exercise is beneficial for heart health, this statement is too general and does not address the specific benefits of cardiac rehabilitation for someone who has had a myocardial infarction.

The correct answer is C:

"Cardiac rehabilitation cannot undo the damage to your heart but it can help you get back to your previous level of activity safely." Cardiac rehabilitation is crucial for patients who have experienced a myocardial infarction. It provides a structured program that includes exercise, education, and support to help patients improve their cardiovascular health and prevent future cardiac events.

Choice D reason:

Deferring to the doctor's expertise does not educate the patient about the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation. It's important for patients to understand why they are participating in the program.

The nurse should explain that cardiac enzyme studies measure the levels of certain enzymes, such as troponin, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase, that are released into the bloodstream when the heart muscle is damaged by an MI. These tests help determine the degree of damage to the heart tissues, as well as the timing and severity of the MI.

"These tests will enable the provider to determine the heart structure and mobility of the heart valves." is wrong because cardiac enzyme studies do not provide information about the heart structure and mobility of the heart valves. Other tests, such as echocardiography or cardiac catheterization, may be used for this purpose.

"Cardiac enzymes will identify the location of the MI." is wrong because cardiac enzyme studies do not indicate the specific location of the MI within the heart. Other tests, such as electrocardiography or coronary angiography, may be used for this purpose.

"Cardiac enzymes assist in diagnosing the presence of pulmonary congestion." is wrong because cardiac enzyme studies do not directly assess the presence of pulmonary congestion, which is a complication of heart failure. Other signs and symptoms, such as dyspnea, crackles, and chest x-ray findings, may be used for this purpose.