MI and SCD

How does nitroglycerin decrease pain in MI?

• It reduces myocardial oxygen demand by lowering HR, BP, and cardiac contractility

• It promotes coronary artery vasodilation and reduces preload and afterload

• It prevents ventricular remodeling and slows the progression of heart failure

• It functions as an analgesic, reduces cardiac contractility, and decreases HR

Which of the following dysrhythmias may lead to a life-threatening event after an MI?

• Atrial fibrillation

• Asystole

• 1^st degree heart block

• Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is most commonly caused by which of the following dysrhythmias?

• Supraventricular tachycardia

• Atrial fibrillation

• 2^nd degree heart block, Mobitz II

• Ventricular tachycardia

Which of the following indicates a need for more teaching with a client at risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD)?

• “Once I get treatment for my left ventricular dysfunction, my life should go back to normal.”

• “If my doctor sees v-tach and v-fib on my Holter monitor I will probably have to start taking amiodarone.”

• “I may have to go to the cardiac cath lab to determine the cause of my irregular heartbeat.”

• “If I get an ICD, I may get shocked when my heart goes into v-tach, and it could be painful.”

What education needs to be provided to patient at risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD)? SATA

• “You will need to wear a LifeVest until you can get an ICD”

• “Your LifeVest must be worn under clothing to effectively give a shock.”

• “If your ICD fires more than once, call 911.”

• “Your loved ones need to know how to perform CPR in case you become unresponsive.”