A nurse is caring for a client suspected of a cocaine-induced ...

[appyboo]

A nurse is caring for a client suspected of a cocaine-induced myocardial infarction (MI). When asked to describe how cocaine can induce an MI, which rationale will the nurse use to respond?
 
  A) Significantly increases the serum triglyceride level, leading to the development of an atheroma.
  B) Alters the body's clotting mechanisms, leading to thrombus formation.
  C) Increases sympathetic nervous system stimulation, increasing blood pressure and vasoconstriction.
  D) Alters electrolyte balance, leading to arrhythmias.

Question 2

A community health nurse is providing education to a group of adults regarding myocardial infarction (MI). When discussing ways to decrease the number of MI-related deaths, which statement by the nurse is inappropriate?
 
  A) It is important to learn how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques.
  B) Be sure to take a baby aspirin every day to help prevent an MI.
  C) Increase your knowledge of cardiac health and cardiac-related disease.
  D) Seek immediate medical attention when you suspect an MI.

[Sweetkitty24130]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: C

Acute MI may also develop as a result of cocaine intoxication. Cocaine increases sympathetic nervous system activity by both increasing the release of catecholamines from central and peripheral stores and interfering with the reuptake of catecholamines. This increased catecholamine concentration stimulates the heart rate and increases its contractility, increases the automaticity of cardiac tissues and the risk of dysrhythmias, and causes vasoconstriction and hypertension. The other answers do not occur with cocaine intoxication.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: B

When educating clients regarding ways to decrease the number of MI-related deaths, the nurse will stress the importance of prevention. Learning about cardiac health and cardiac disease, as well as learning CPR, is appropriate. Clients should be taught to seek immediate medical attention when they suspect an MI. However, instructing all clients to take a baby aspirin every day to help prevent an MI is inappropriate, as not all clients should take this medication.