North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What are common signs and symptoms associated with myocardial infarction (MI) and angina?

1. Chest pain and shortness of breath

2. Severe headache and confusion

3. Sudden vision loss and headache

4. Loss of consciousness and seizures

The correct answer is: Chest pain and shortness of breath

Chest pain and shortness of breath are hallmark signs of both myocardial infarction (MI) and angina. These symptoms occur due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, often resulting from blockages in the coronary arteries. Chest pain, commonly described as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, or heaviness in the chest, is typically the most prominent symptom in these conditions. It may also radiate to other areas like the arms, jaw, back, or stomach. Shortness of breath often accompanies chest pain in MI due to the heart's decreased ability to pump effectively, which can lead to fluid backing up into the lungs, making breathing difficult. The other symptoms listed are not characteristic of MI or angina. For instance, severe headache and confusion, sudden vision loss and headache, as well as loss of consciousness and seizures are associated with other medical conditions, such as neurological events or strokes, rather than cardiac events. This distinction is crucial for EMTs to ensure accurate assessment and timely treatment of patients experiencing cardiac emergencies.