Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

Why would a patient recovering from a myocardial infarction benefit from medication that decreases sympathetic nervous system activity?

1. It increases sympathetic nervous system activity

2. It decreases vasodilation

3. It decreases sympathetic nervous system activity

4. It increases the release of catecholamines

The correct answer is: It decreases sympathetic nervous system activity

The primary benefit of medication that decreases sympathetic nervous system activity for a patient recovering from a myocardial infarction lies in its ability to reduce the workload on the heart and prevent complications associated with excessive sympathetic stimulation. Following a myocardial infarction, there is often an elevated level of stress hormones, such as catecholamines, which can lead to increased heart rate, contractility, and blood pressure. This heightened activity of the sympathetic nervous system can put additional strain on a compromised heart. By decreasing sympathetic nervous system activity, these medications help to minimize this strain, leading to improved cardiac efficiency and reduced oxygen demand. This can be particularly important for patients who are at risk for further cardiac events. Additionally, lower sympathetic activity is associated with improved outcomes, such as reduced risk of arrhythmias and heart failure. In contrast, options that suggest an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity or catecholamine release contradict the desired effect of these medications. Medication that decreases vasodilation would not directly address the issue of sympathetic overactivity and may not be favorable in the context of myocardial infarction recovery.