A patient is admitted with the diagnosis of unstable angina.The nurse knows that the physiological mechanism present is most likely which of the following?
A) Complete occlusion of a coronary artery
B) Fatty streak within the intima of a coronary artery
C) Partial occlusion of a coronary artery with a thrombus
D) Vasospasm of a coronary artery

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In unstable angina,some blood continues to flow through the affected coronary artery; however,flow is diminished related to partial occlusion.The pain in unstable angina is more severe,may occur at rest,and requires more frequent nitrate therapy.Complete occlusion is associated with a myocardial infarction.A fatty streak is present in all vessels affected by coronary artery disease.Vasospasm leads to Prinzmetal's angina.

A Patient Is Admitted with the Diagnosis of Unstable Angina