ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam related questions and content

How does the pain of a myocardial infarction (MI) differ from stable angina?

  • A. Accompanied by shortness of breath
  • B. Feelings of fear or anxiety
  • C. Lasts about 3-5 minutes
  • D. Relieved by taking nitroglycerin
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, as the pain of MI is often accompanied by shortness of breath due to decreased oxygen supply to the heart muscle, whereas stable angina typically does not present with this symptom. Shortness of breath in MI is due to the heart's inability to pump effectively. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because feelings of fear or anxiety, duration of pain, and response to nitroglycerin are not definitive differentiating factors between MI and stable angina.