1.
Which of the following is NOT classified as an acute coronary syndrome (ACS)?
Correct Answer
B. Atherosclerosis
Explanation
Though atherosclerosis is NOT classified as an ACS, it is part of the etiology of ACS.
2.
An acute coronary syndrome with total occlusion is most consistent with which of the following?
Correct Answer
D. ST segment elevation myocardial infarction
Explanation
An acute coronary syndrome with total occlusion is most consistent with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction. This is because ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) occurs when there is a complete blockage of a coronary artery, leading to a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle. Plaque rupture can cause a STEMI, as it leads to the formation of a blood clot that completely blocks the artery. Unstable angina and non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) are also acute coronary syndromes, but they do not involve total occlusion of the coronary artery.
3.
Which of the following is NOT a correct recommendation for patients prior to hospital arrival?
Correct Answer
A. Patients should use transdermal nitroglycerin (if available), then wait to see if symptoms subside within 5 minutes
Explanation
With this question, it is a matter of onset of action of the drug. Sublingual nitroglycerin has a rapid onset of action which is important in an acute exacerbation in which the patient would have to seek medical attention (i.e. go to the hospital). On the other hand, transdermal nitroglycerin has a much longer onset because of the dosage formulation. The drug must be released from the patch, penetrate the skin, then make its way into the blood stream. This will not provide the relief needed in an acute exacerbation.
4.
The "A" in MONA-B stands for "acute pain management".
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
This is false. The "A" in MONA-B stands for antiplatelet/anticoagulation. The "M" in MONA-B stands for morphine, which would fall under "acute pain management".
5.
Which is not a goal in unstable angina?
Correct Answer
B. Limit infarct size
Explanation
Since there is no infarction in UA, this would not be an appropriate treatment goal.
6.
Which is not an ABSOLUTE contraindication to fibrinolytic?
Correct Answer
C. Current use of anticoagulants
Explanation
Current use of anticoagulants is not an absolute contraindication to fibrinolytic therapy. While anticoagulants increase the risk of bleeding, they can be managed and reversed if necessary. On the other hand, previous intracranial hemorrhage, suspected aortic dissection, and known structural vascular lesion are absolute contraindications to fibrinolytic therapy as they significantly increase the risk of bleeding and other complications.
7.
Which CYP is responsible for the interaction between PPIs (e.g. omeprazole) and clopidogrel?
Correct Answer
C. CYP 2C19
Explanation
CYP 2C19 is responsible for the interaction between PPIs (e.g. omeprazole) and clopidogrel. This enzyme is involved in the metabolism of both drugs, and when PPIs are co-administered with clopidogrel, they can inhibit CYP 2C19 activity, leading to decreased conversion of clopidogrel to its active form. This can result in reduced antiplatelet effects of clopidogrel and potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, it is important to consider this interaction when prescribing these medications together.
8.
Which antiplatelet is indicated for PCI only?
Correct Answer
B. Prasugrel
Explanation
Prasugrel is the correct answer because it is specifically indicated for use in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as angioplasty. PCI is a procedure used to open blocked arteries in the heart, and prasugrel is a potent antiplatelet medication that helps prevent blood clots during and after the procedure. Clopidogrel and Ticagrelor are also antiplatelet drugs, but they have broader indications and can be used in various cardiovascular conditions, not exclusively for PCI.
9.
Which antiplatelet has the lowest risk of bleeding?
Correct Answer
A. Clopidogrel
Explanation
Clopidogrel has the lowest risk of bleeding compared to Prasugrel and Ticagrelor. This is because Clopidogrel is a less potent antiplatelet drug, which means it has a lower effect on platelet function and therefore a lower risk of bleeding. Prasugrel and Ticagrelor are more potent antiplatelet drugs and have a higher risk of bleeding as a side effect. Hence, Clopidogrel is considered to be a safer option in terms of bleeding risk.
10.
Which of the following is NOT true in regards to Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)?
Correct Answer
B. Vasculature is normally taken from the heart to bypass the arthersclerotic lesions
Explanation
This option is false because normally, vasculature is taken from another part of the body in order to bypass the atherosclerotic lesion.
11.
Which are typical clinical presentations of ACS?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Angina
B. DiapHoresis
C. Shortness of breath
E. Nausea and vomiting
Explanation
Typical clinical presentations of ACS include angina, diaphoresis, shortness of breath, and nausea and vomiting. Angina refers to chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure or squeezing, that occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the heart. Diaphoresis refers to excessive sweating, which can be a symptom of ACS due to increased sympathetic nervous system activity. Shortness of breath can occur due to reduced oxygen supply to the heart muscle. Nausea and vomiting can be caused by the body's response to the stress and pain associated with ACS.
12.
A Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) has a lower bleeding risk than a fibrinolytic.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
A Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. It involves inserting a catheter into the blood vessels to open up the blocked artery and restore blood flow to the heart. Compared to a fibrinolytic, which is a medication used to dissolve blood clots, PCI has a lower bleeding risk. This is because PCI is a targeted procedure that directly treats the blocked artery, while fibrinolytics are systemic medications that can affect the entire body, increasing the risk of bleeding complications. Therefore, the statement is true.
13.
A male patient is being discharged from the hospital after having a STEMI. The patient has an LDL of 100 mg/dL and an HDL of 45 mg/dL with no contraindications to a statin but is not currently taking one. Which of the following choices BEST describes how to discharge statin therapy should be handled in this patient.
Correct Answer
D. Since this patient has normal cholesterol lab values but recently had a STEMI, atorvastatin 80mg would be the best choice for therapy.
Explanation
Following a STEMI, a high intensity statin (e.g. atorvastatin 80mg) is recommended in ALL patients with no contraindications to a statin.