The patient is admitted with a suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In assessing the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, which findings would indicate to the nurse that the patient is in the process of a myocardial infarction (MI)?
Depressed ST-segment on ECG and elevated total CPK
Depressed ST-segment on ECG and normal cardiac enzymes
ST-segment elevation on ECG and elevated CK-MB or troponin levels
Q wave on ECG with normal enzymes and troponin levels
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. A depressed ST-segment is often associated with ischemia or non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), not an ongoing MI.
B. A depressed ST-segment with normal cardiac enzymes suggests ischemia rather than an active MI.
C. ST-segment elevation on ECG combined with elevated cardiac biomarkers such as CK-MB or troponin levels is a hallmark of an acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), indicating an ongoing MI.
D. A Q wave on ECG indicates an old infarction and is not associated with an acute MI if enzymes and troponin levels are normal.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is typically recommended for patients with significant occlusion of the left main coronary artery, as it effectively restores blood flow to the heart muscle by bypassing the blocked artery.
B. Radiofrequency catheter ablation is used to treat arrhythmias, not coronary artery occlusions.
C. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) placement is for managing life-threatening arrhythmias, not directly for treating coronary artery blockages.
D. A circulatory assist device is used in severe cases of heart failure, but it does not address the underlying issue of coronary artery occlusion.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Obtaining a stat chest x-ray is important if catheter misplacement is suspected, but in this situation, ensuring the accuracy of the pressure reading through proper leveling and zeroing is the priority.
B. Zero referencing and leveling the catheter at the phlebostatic axis is essential to ensure accurate readings of the pulmonary artery pressure, which is critical for patient assessment and management.
C. Increasing supplemental oxygen is unnecessary given the patient’s stable oxygen saturation and normal respiratory status.
D. While notifying the provider is important, ensuring the accuracy of the pressure reading by leveling and zeroing the catheter should be done first.