Question

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings of a client who developed chest pain 6 hr ago. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as an indication of a myocardial infarction (MI)?

a) Increased troponin levels
b) Decreased creatinine kinase levels
c) Elevated white blood cell count
d) Normal electrocardiogram (ECG)

Answer 1

An MI can be confirmed by examining the patient's ECG and conducting blood tests. Elevated levels of creatine kinase MB and cardiac troponin are common indicators of an MI.

Step-by-step explanation:

An MI can be confirmed by examining the patient's ECG, which frequently reveals alterations in the ST and Q components. Some classification schemes of MI are referred to as ST-elevated MI (STEMI) and non-elevated MI (non-STEMI). In addition, echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging may be employed. Common blood tests indicating an MI include elevated levels of creatine kinase MB and cardiac troponin, both of which are released by damaged cardiac muscle cells.