Cardiac Medicine Certification (CMC) Practice Exam

Which of the following symptoms may indicate poor outcomes in patients with inferior wall MIs?

1. Edema

2. Palpitations

3. Bradycardia

4. Shortness of breath

The correct answer is: Bradycardia

In the context of inferior wall myocardial infarctions (MIs), bradycardia can be a significant indicator of poor outcomes. Inferior wall MIs, often associated with occlusion in the right coronary artery, can lead to increased vagal tone, which can manifest as bradycardia. This slower heart rate can result in reduced cardiac output, especially if significant ischemia or conduction disturbances are present. Bradycardia in patients with an inferior wall MI suggests compromise in blood flow and may be associated with greater cardiac dysfunction, increasing the risk of complications such as heart failure or complete heart block. Recognizing bradycardia along with the clinical scenario allows clinicians to assess the severity of the MI and initiate appropriate interventions. Monitoring for this symptom is crucial, as it can indicate an underlying electrical disturbance or hemodynamic instability that may need immediate management to improve the patient's outcome.