Final answer:
If a patient's EKG shows a previous MI but is pain-free, the next step is to evaluate the extent of the previous MI and assess the current cardiac function using additional tests such as echocardiography or cardiac MRI. Blood tests can also be used to assess cardiac enzymes for ongoing damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient's EKG shows a previous myocardial infarction (MI), but the patient is pain-free, the next step is to evaluate the patient further to determine the extent of the previous MI and assess their current cardiac function. This can be done through additional tests such as echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These tests can provide more detailed information about the heart's structure, function, and any damage caused by the previous MI.
In addition to imaging tests, blood tests can also be used to assess the patient's cardiac enzymes. Elevated levels of enzymes like creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin may indicate ongoing damage to the heart muscle, even if the patient is not experiencing pain. These tests help in determining the severity of the previous MI and guide further management.