Question

A client is admitted to the cardiac care unit with a diagnosis of myocardial infarction. the client asks the nurse, "what is causing the pain i am having?" which explanation of the cause of the pain is the most appropriate response by the nurse?

Answer 1

Myocardial infarction, also known as heart attack to most people, is a result of an acute blockage of bloodflow to the heart. If a patient would ask the nurse why he/she is experiencing pain, it is best to tell the patient that chest pain or any discomfort in the arm, shoulder, neck, or back is caused by the decrease of blood flow to heart. Add to that, the nurse may inform the patient that people experiencing heart attacks may also feel shortness of breath, along with sweating, weakness, nausea, and fatigue. It is important to inform the patient about these symptoms so that he/she will be aware that these are common for people with myocardial infarction and that immediate medical attention is a must.