Final answer:
The most lethal complication following an MI is cardiac arrest, where the heart suddenly stops beating and blood flow is interrupted. The damage to the heart muscle during an MI increases the risk of cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, and ultimately cardiac arrest.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most lethal complication following a myocardial infarction (MI), or heart attack, is cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, preventing blood flow to the body and causing death. This can happen as a result of the damage done to the heart muscle during an MI.
During an MI, blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, leading to the death of myocardial cells. This damage increases the risk of heart arrhythmias, heart failure, and ultimately cardiac arrest. It is important for individuals who have experienced an MI to receive prompt medical attention and follow-up care to reduce the risk of these lethal complications.