An emergency department nurse is assessing an adult woman for a suspected myocardial infarction (MI). When planning the assessment, the nurse should be aware that female patients may have which of the following symptoms for an MI? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

A. Retinal Hemorrhage

Uncontrolled hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to retinal hemorrhages. This can result in vision problems and, in severe cases, vision loss.

B. Ventricular Hypertrophy

Uncontrolled hypertension causes the heart to pump against increased resistance, leading to the thickening and enlargement of the left ventricle. Ventricular hypertrophy is a response to the increased workload on the heart and is associated with an increased risk of heart failure.

C. Cerebrovascular Disease

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cerebrovascular diseases, including strokes. Elevated blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of stroke. Strokes can have serious consequences, affecting various neurological functions.

D. Venous Insufficiency

Venous insufficiency is not typically directly associated with uncontrolled hypertension. It is more commonly related to problems with the venous system, such as damaged valves in the veins, leading to poor blood flow back to the heart. While hypertension can affect arteries, venous insufficiency is a distinct condition.

E. Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs)

Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), which are brief episodes of neurological dysfunction caused by temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. TIAs are often considered warning signs of an increased risk of stroke.

A. Frequent change of position:

Frequent changes in position help prevent pooling of secretions and promote lung expansion. This simple and cost-effective measure is important in preventing complications related to immobility, such as pneumonia and atelectasis. It aids in maintaining optimal respiratory function.

B. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and would not directly address the risks associated with decreased mobility.

C. Oxygen humidification: While oxygen therapy may be necessary in some cases, humidification is typically used to prevent drying of mucous membranes and is not a primary intervention for preventing complications of decreased mobility.

D. Chest physiotherapy: Chest physiotherapy involves techniques to mobilize respiratory secretions and may be indicated in specific situations. However, it is not as simple and cost-effective as frequent changes in position.