A few days after an acute MI, a patient complains of stabbing chest pain that increases with deep breathing. Which action will the nurse take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's clinical manifestations and history are consistent with pericarditis, and the first action by the nurse should be to listen for a pericardial friction rub. Checking the temperature, giving acetaminophen (Tylenol), and notifying the health care provider are also appropriate actions but would not be done before listening for a rub.

A Few Days After an Acute MI, a Patient Complains