Question

The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with a MI who is experiencing chest pain. Which interventions should the nurse implement? Select all that apply.

a. Administer morphine intramuscularly
b. Administer an aspirin orally
c. Apply oxygen via NC
d. Place the client in a supine position
e. Administer NTG subcutaneously

Answer 1

In the event of an MI, a nurse should administer aspirin orally, supply oxygen via nasal cannula, and give nitroglycerin sublingually. Morphine, if used, should be intravenous, and the patient should be in a comfortable position that facilitates breathing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse caring for a client diagnosed with a myocardial infarction (MI) who is experiencing chest pain should implement several critical interventions. Among these, appropriate measures include:

• Administering an aspirin orally to help break up blood clots.
• Applying oxygen via nasal cannula (NC) to ensure adequate oxygenation.
• Administering nitroglycerin (NTG) sublingually, not subcutaneously, to rapidly relieve chest pain.

Administering morphine should be done intravenously, not intramuscularly, for quicker pain relief and cardiovascular effects. Additionally, the patient's position should be one of comfort that also allows for improved breathing, which is often semi-upright rather than supine.

It is critical to recognize chest pain and other symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, and sweating, as these may indicate an MI requiring immediate treatment. These interventions are part of the initial management aimed at stabilizing the patient, relieving symptoms, and preventing further myocardial damage.