Acute Coronary Syndromes Flashcards
7 cards from real ACLS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Acute Coronary Syndromes flashcards as text
A 65-year-old woman with diabetes presents with fatigue and dyspnea for 2 days. ECG shows ST depression in V4–V6 and troponin is elevated. What is the diagnosis?
Answer: NSTEMI
Elevated troponin with ischemic symptoms (even atypical) and ST depression confirms NSTEMI — troponin elevation distinguishes it from unstable angina.
The TIMI risk score for NSTEMI/UA is used to guide treatment intensity. Which of the following is NOT a component of the TIMI risk score?
Answer: Female sex
Female sex is not a component of the TIMI risk score; the score includes age, CAD risk factors, known CAD, ST changes, elevated markers, and recent aspirin use.
Which anticoagulant is preferred in NSTEMI patients managed with an early invasive strategy (planned PCI within 24 hours)?
Answer: Unfractionated heparin or bivalirudin
Unfractionated heparin (UFH) or bivalirudin is preferred for patients undergoing PCI due to reversibility and established cath lab protocols.
Nitroglycerin is contraindicated in which of the following ACS scenarios?
Answer: Inferior STEMI with right ventricular infarction
Nitroglycerin is contraindicated in right ventricular infarction because preload reduction can precipitate severe hypotension in RV-dependent patients.
A patient presents with ACS and is found to have a history of prior intracranial hemorrhage. Which antiplatelet agent should be AVOIDED?
Answer: Prasugrel
Prasugrel is contraindicated in patients with a history of stroke or TIA due to significantly increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage.
What is the ACLS-recommended initial oxygen saturation target for ACS patients who are NOT hypoxic?
Answer: Do not administer supplemental oxygen; target SpO2 ≥ 94% only if hypoxic
Routine supplemental oxygen is not recommended for ACS patients with SpO2 ≥ 94%; oxygen should be given only to hypoxic patients to avoid potential harm.
A patient with STEMI receives primary PCI. Which medication should be continued for at least 12 months post-stenting to reduce stent thrombosis risk?
Answer: A P2Y12 inhibitor (ticagrelor, prasugrel, or clopidogrel)
Dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin + P2Y12 inhibitor) for at least 12 months post-PCI is recommended to prevent stent thrombosis.