CCRN Exam with Questions and Answers

CCRN Exam with Questions and Answers A 59 year old male is admitted complaining of chest pain and dyspnea. ST elevation and T wave inversion were seen on the EKG in V2,V3 and V4. IV thrombolytic therapy was started in ED. Indications of successful reperfusion would include all of the following except: (A) pain cessation (B) decrease in CK or troponin (C) reversal of ST segment elevation with return to baseline (D) short runs of ventricular tachycardia ANSWER (B)Coronary artery reperfusion due to PCI or fibrinolysis results in an ELEVATION of creatinine kinase (CK) or troponin, not decrease. The theory is that the return of blood flow distal to the occlusion can result in 'reperfusion injury' of the muscle, elevating cardiac biomarkers. The other 3 choices are indicators of reperfusion: Pain cessation, reversal of ST segment elevation with return to baseline, short runs of ventricular tachycardia. Which of the following medication orders should the nurse question for the patient in question 1-reperfusion question-patient having an MI? (A) metoprolol (Lopressor) (B) aspirin (C) propranolol (Inderal) (D) heparin ANSWER (C) The patient in the scenario is having an acute anterior wall MI. A beta blocker is beneficial for an acute MI as these agents decrease the work of the heart and increase the threshold for ventricular fibrillation. Propranolol, although a beta-andrenergic blocker like metoprolol, is NOT a cardioselective beta blocker. It affects beta receptors in heart muscle AND lung tissue. Therefore, it is more likely to cause bronchoconstriction than a cardioselective beta blocker. The other 3- cardioselective beta blocker, antiplatelet, and anticoagulation-are indicated in an acute MI.