NursingPlex
    Sign In
    RN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Proctored Exam
    Select All That Apply

    The nurse is reviewing the client's medical record. A nurse is reviewing the client's diagnostic results and vital signs. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? Select all that apply.

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Anticipate client to be prepped for cardiac catheterization: The client’s presentation, including chest pain, ST-segment elevation, elevated troponins, and unstable vital signs, indicates an acute myocardial infarction. Cardiac catheterization is the definitive diagnostic and interventional procedure to restore coronary perfusion. B. Assist with a continuous heparin infusion: Anticoagulation is a critical component of STEMI management. Heparin is typically started immediately (along with antiplatelet medications like Aspirin, which is already prescribed) to prevent the existing clot from propagating and to prevent the formation of new clots in the coronary arteries. C. Encourage the client to ambulate: Ambulation is contraindicated in acute myocardial infarction with ongoing chest pain and unstable hemodynamics. Early activity could increase myocardial oxygen demand and worsen ischemia, so the client should remain on bed rest until stabilized and cleared for activity. D. Anticipate an increased dosage of metoprolol: The client's blood pressure (110/62 mmHg at 12:00) has dropped significantly since the initial presentation and is now borderline low, and the heart rate is still high. Increasing the dosage of a beta-blocker (metoprolol) at this time could cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure and worsen shock. E. Obtain a prescription for client to be NPO: The client may require urgent procedures such as cardiac catheterization or surgery. Keeping the client NPO prevents aspiration and ensures readiness for potential interventions. F. Request a prescription for an antibiotic: There is no indication of infection in the client’s presentation or diagnostic results. Administering antibiotics would not address the acute cardiac event and is unnecessary unless new signs of infection develop.

    🔒 Submit your answer to reveal