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.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Numbness and tingling in the left hand could indicate compromised blood flow or nerve damage, potentially due to the arterial line, requiring immediate assessment and intervention.
B. Slight bloody drainage is a common finding and typically does not require immediate action.
C. A dressing beginning to lift should be addressed to maintain a sterile environment but is not an emergency.
D. Slight redness at the insertion site may indicate mild irritation or early signs of infection, but it does not require immediate intervention compared to the potential vascular or nerve compromise suggested by numbness and tingling.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. The radial pulse is not as reliable as the carotid pulse in assessing circulation during CPR.
B. The carotid pulse is the most reliable site to assess circulation in an adult during CPR because it is closest to the heart and will reflect the true status of central circulation.
C. The apical pulse is not typically assessed during CPR due to its location and difficulty in palpation.
D. The popliteal pulse is not a recommended site for assessing circulation during CPR.