A patient is admitted to the emergency department with clinical indications of an ST elevated myocardial infarction. The facility does not have the capability for percutaneous coronary intervention. Given this scenario, what is the priority intervention in the treatment and nursing management of this patient?
Administer thrombolytic therapy unless contraindicated
Keep oxygen saturation levels to at least 88%
Maintain heart rate above 100 beats/min
Administer diuretics aggressively and monitor daily weight
The Correct Answer is A
A. Thrombolytic therapy is the priority in managing an ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) when percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is not available. It helps dissolve the blood clot causing the blockage in the coronary artery.
B. Maintaining oxygen saturation is important, but the priority is to restore coronary blood flow.
C. The focus should be on stabilizing the heart rhythm, not specifically maintaining a high heart rate.
D. Diuretics are important in managing heart failure but are not the priority in acute STEMI management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Sudden weight gain can indicate fluid retention, a common early sign of heart failure exacerbation. Prompt reporting allows for early intervention.
B. Nitroglycerin is used to treat chest pain, not specifically to prevent heart failure exacerbations.
C. Assessment of the apical pulse is important, but monitoring weight is more directly related to managing heart failure.
D. Compliance with diuretic therapy is important, but recognizing early signs of fluid retention, such as rapid weight gain, is crucial for preventing exacerbations.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Referring the patient to the physician without addressing the concern may make the patient feel dismissed.
B. While lifestyle changes are important, this response does not address the patient’s emotional concern directly.
C. Encouraging the patient to express their fears allows the nurse to provide emotional support and address any misconceptions or anxieties, which is crucial for holistic care.
D. This response could be seen as dismissive and may not address the patient’s underlying concerns or fears.
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