Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) Management

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Questions and Answers

Why is it crucial to obtain a thorough patient history, including assessing risk factors, when diagnosing Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?

To expedite the treatment process by immediately administering medications.
To differentiate ACS from other conditions with similar symptoms, guiding appropriate management. (correct)
To satisfy legal requirements for patient consent before any intervention.
To accurately document the patient's past medical history for insurance purposes.

In the context of the Paramedic Decision-Making Model, what is the significance of the 'pay-off principle' in diagnosing ACS?

It refers to the financial compensation paramedics receive for accurately diagnosing ACS.
It ensures that patients are fully informed about the cost of treatment before agreeing to it.
It emphasizes the importance of weighing the potential benefits of intervention against the risks when assessing atypical ACS patients. (correct)
It prioritizes patient satisfaction scores as the primary outcome of care.

Why is it important for paramedics to be especially alert for 'atypical' patients when diagnosing Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?

Atypical patients are less likely to respond to standard ACS treatments, requiring alternative approaches.
Atypical patients may present with vague or unusual symptoms, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses of ACS. (correct)
Atypical patients often require specialized equipment not typically available in ambulances.
Atypical patients are more likely to have underlying psychological issues affecting their perception of pain.

What is the FIRST step a paramedic should take to manage a patient suspected of experiencing Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Address any immediate life threats. (B) Signup and view all the answers

According to the Paramedic Decision-Making Model, what should a paramedic do after addressing immediate life threats in a patient suspected of having Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Perform a primary survey. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of performing a 'cognitive checkpoint' within the Paramedic Decision-Making Model for Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) patients?

To specifically evaluate the differential diagnoses, 'Red Flags', and 'ROWS' (Reasonable, Other, Worse, Scenario). (A) Signup and view all the answers

In the Paramedic Decision-Making Model, what action should be taken if a patient with suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) shows 'Significant change or deterioration' or 'No improvement post treatment'?

Reassess the patient, reconsider the initial assessment, and adjust the treatment strategy, considering other potential diagnoses. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What bedside test is MOST important to have completed in the prehospital setting when a patient is suspected of having Acute Coronary Syndrome?

12-Lead ECG (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is fentanyl preferred over morphine for pain control in the initial management of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?

Fentanyl is less likely to interfere with the action of antiplatelet medications like aspirin. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A patient with suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome has an SpO2 reading of 92%. What is the MOST appropriate course of action regarding oxygen administration?

Administer oxygen to achieve a SpO2 of approximately 94% or greater without inducing hyperoxia. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism of action of Glyceryl Trinitrate (GTN) in the treatment of Acute Coronary Syndrome?

To dilate the coronary arteries and reduce preload. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is IV access important in the prehospital management of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?

To prepare for potential medication administration and correction of hypotension. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Aspirin is administered to patients suspected of Acute Coronary Syndrome. What is its primary mechanism of action in this context?

It prevents further thrombus formation by inhibiting platelet activation. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of administering oxygen to patients with ACS?

Improve oxygen supply in patients with hypoxemia. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying mechanism of action of Beta-blockers like Labetalol or Metoprolol and Calcium Channel Blockers in the context of ACS?

Both B and D (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST important consideration when deciding whether to administer Heparin or Tenecteplase to a patient with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) in the prehospital setting?

Whether the patient is likely to receive definitive treatment (e.g., PCI) at a receiving hospital. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications used in Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) treatment works primarily to transform the inactive precursor plasminogen into plasmin, thereby lysing fibrin clots?

Tenecteplase (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of secondary hemostasis, which medication inhibits Vitamin K?

Warfarin (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is used on ALL ACS patients?

GTN (C) Signup and view all the answers

According to the diagram about Primary and Secondary Haemostasis, which of the following medications inhibits platelet activation?

Aspirin (B) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)

A syndrome encompassing conditions like unstable angina and myocardial infarction, resulting from reduced blood flow to the heart.

Diagnosis of ACS

Obtaining a thorough patient history, including assessing risk factors, using the 'pay-off principle', and being alert for 'atypical' patients.

Paramedic Decision-Making Model

A structured method involving primary survey, physical exam, vital signs, and cognitive checkpoints to efficiently assess and manage patients.