Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What immediate treatment can help with reperfusion injury during myocardial infarction?

1. Application of ice packs

2. Administration of aspirin

3. Oxygen therapy

4. Use of nasal cannula at 2lpm

The correct answer is: Use of nasal cannula at 2lpm

The use of a nasal cannula at 2 liters per minute is an effective immediate treatment for reperfusion injury during a myocardial infarction. Providing supplemental oxygen helps to ensure that the tissues receive adequate oxygen levels, particularly during the crucial moments after blood supply has been restored to the heart muscle. This can help mitigate potential damage that occurs when blood flow is resumed, as the sudden influx of oxygen can lead to oxidative stress and further injury. This therapy supports the metabolic demands of the heart, especially since patients experiencing a heart attack often have compromised oxygen delivery due to reduced blood flow. Maintaining oxygen saturation can be vital in minimizing the extent of heart tissue damage. In addition, the use of a nasal cannula is a straightforward and accessible intervention that can be implemented quickly in an emergency setting. While aspirin can be beneficial in managing a myocardial infarction by inhibiting platelet aggregation, and ice packs might have some use in managing certain types of swelling or pain, neither directly addresses the urgent need for oxygen in the context of reperfusion injury. Oxygen therapy, particularly through a nasal cannula, focuses on enhancing oxygen delivery to ischemic tissues, making it the most appropriate choice in this scenario.