In a patient experiencing a myocardial infarction, a medication that reduces afterload is beneficial because it:
A) reduces the workload of the heart, reducing myocardial oxygen consumption.
B) reduces the blood flow to unnecessary areas, redirecting blood to the heart.
C) improves the stroke volume of blood ejected from the heart by also reducing preload.
D) prolongs the Q-T interval, thereby allowing time for complete atrial contribution to the ventricles.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

By reducing afterload, the medication reduces the resistance to blood flow that the heart must overcome with each contraction. This, in turn, reduces the workload of the heart and ultimately reduces the demand for oxygen by the myocardium.

In a Patient Experiencing a Myocardial Infarction, a Medication That