1. A 55-year-old male patient presents to the emergency department with

chest pain, dyspnea, diaphoresis, and nausea. He has a history of

hypertension, diabetes, and smoking. The nurse suspects that he is having

a myocardial infarction (MI) and orders an electrocardiogram (ECG) and

cardiac enzymes. Which of the following ECG changes is most indicative

of an acute MI?

a) ST-segment elevation*

b) T-wave inversion

c) Q-wave formation

d) U-wave appearance

Rationale: ST-segment elevation is the most specific and sensitive sign of

an acute MI, indicating transmural ischemia and injury of the

myocardium. T-wave inversion, Q-wave formation, and U-wave

appearance are other ECG changes that may occur in MI, but they are less

specific and may indicate other cardiac conditions.

2. A 65-year-old female patient is diagnosed with coronary artery disease

(CAD) and is prescribed a statin drug to lower her cholesterol levels. The

nurse educates her about the importance of adhering to the medication

regimen and monitoring for any adverse effects. Which of the following

statements by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

a) "I will take the statin drug at night before going to bed."*

b) "I will report any muscle pain or weakness to my doctor."

c) "I will have my liver function tests done regularly."

d) "I will avoid grapefruit juice while taking this drug."

Rationale: Statin drugs are usually taken at night because they inhibit

cholesterol synthesis when it is most active. Taking the drug in the

morning may reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects.

Muscle pain or weakness, liver dysfunction, and grapefruit juice

interaction are potential adverse effects of statin drugs that the patient

should be aware of and report to the doctor.

3. A 60-year-old male patient undergoes a coronary angiography to assess

the extent of his CAD. The nurse explains the procedure to him and

obtains his informed consent. Which of the following interventions should

the nurse perform before the procedure?