How can the nurse best explain the difference between angina and a myocardial infarction to a client presenting with severe chest pain?
- A. "Angina usually resolves with rest, and is rarely fatal, while a myocardial infarction necessitates immediate treatment and can be life-threatening."
- B. "There is a clear distinction between the two. You will receive treatment based on the diagnosis of a myocardial infarction."
- C. "Both conditions result from a clot obstructing the coronary arteries. Angina occurs with the blockage of a small vessel, whereas a myocardial infarction occurs with a blockage of a large vessel."
- D. "Angina may not cause as intense chest pain, whereas a myocardial infarction always presents with severe chest pain."
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When educating a client about the differences between angina and a myocardial infarction, it is crucial to emphasize key distinguishing factors. Angina typically improves with rest and is not usually life-threatening, whereas a myocardial infarction requires urgent intervention as it can be life-threatening. This explanation helps the client understand the urgency and severity associated with a myocardial infarction compared to angina.
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A client has ordered a thrombolytic medication for the treatment of CVA. Which type of stroke should not be treated with a thrombolytic?
- A. Hemorrhagic stroke
- B. Thrombotic stroke
- C. Both types can be treated with a thrombolytic
- D. Neither type can be treated with a thrombolytic
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
When a client is discharged with nitroglycerin (Nitrostat), what should the nurse include in client education?
- A. "Your chest pain should go away with one tablet."
- B. "If your chest pain doesn't go away after three tablets, call 911; you might be having a heart attack."
- C. "If your chest pain doesn't go away with one tablet, you can repeat the dose as many times as you need to."
- D. "Be sure to call 911 before you take any tablets."
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer instructs the client on the appropriate use of nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin is used to relieve chest pain or angina. If the chest pain does not subside after taking one tablet, the client should take a maximum of three tablets at 5-minute intervals. If the pain persists after three tablets, it could indicate a heart attack, and emergency medical help should be sought. This education is crucial to ensure the client knows when to seek immediate medical attention.
A client taking nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) complains of a headache. Which conclusion is most appropriate by the nurse?
- A. A headache indicates a serious allergic reaction to nitroglycerin.
- B. The client will not have a headache if the nitroglycerin is taken with a high-fat meal.
- C. Nitroglycerin does not cause a headache.
- D. The most common side effect of nitroglycerin is a headache.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nitroglycerin is known to cause headaches as a common side effect due to its vasodilatory properties. It dilates blood vessels, which can lead to headaches. While a headache can indicate other serious conditions, the most common association with nitroglycerin use is a headache. It is crucial for the nurse to recognize this side effect and provide appropriate education and support to the client.
What is the first type of medication prescribed to prevent angina pain for a client?
- A. Beta blockers
- B. Alpha blockers
- C. Calcium channel blockers
- D. Organic nitrates
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Beta blockers are the first-line medication prescribed to prevent angina pain. They work by reducing the heart rate and blood pressure, decreasing the heart's demand for oxygen. This helps in preventing angina attacks by improving blood flow to the heart. Alpha blockers, calcium channel blockers, and organic nitrates are also used in angina treatment but are typically considered after beta blockers.
The client asks the nurse about common side effects of calcium channel blockers. What should the nurse include in client teaching?
- A. Headache
- B. Constipation
- C. Epistaxis
- D. Dysuria
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: One of the common side effects of calcium channel blockers is a headache. This is important information for the nurse to include in client teaching as it helps the client understand potential adverse effects of the medication. Constipation, epistaxis, and dysuria are not typically associated with calcium channel blockers.