The nurse is assessing a patient with a myocardial infarction who may receive tissue plasminogen activator [t-PA]. Which question is most important for the nurse to ask?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most important question to ask is "What time did the chest pain begin?" because tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) is most effective when given within a specific time frame after the onset of myocardial infarction symptoms, typically within 3 to 4.5 hours. This information directly impacts the treatment plan and the use of t-PA.

The Nurse Is Assessing a Patient with a Myocardial Infarction