Question

The nurse is caring for a client with acute coronary syndrome. Which of the following are the most common findings associated with this condition? (Select all that apply.)

a. Chest pain or discomfort
b. Elevated blood pressure
c. Shortness of breath
d. Increased appetite

Answer 1

Common findings in a client with acute coronary syndrome include chest pain or discomfort and shortness of breath. Elevated blood pressure is a risk factor, not a finding, while increased appetite is not associated with this condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is caring for a client with acute coronary syndrome. The most common findings associated with this condition are:

• Chest pain or discomfort, also known as angina, which feels like pressure or squeezing in the chest, and could spread to arms, neck, jaw, or back.
• Shortness of breath, medically termed as dyspnea, often accompanies the chest pain.

Chest discomfort in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) occurs when heart muscle cells become deprived of oxygen due to reduced blood flow.

An elevated blood pressure can be a risk factor for coronary conditions, but it is not typically a symptom of ACS. Likewise, an increased appetite is not commonly associated with ACS.