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Angina Pectoris

– A paroxysmal chest pain caused by (ischemia) due to insufficient blood flow to the myocardium.

Risk Factors:

• Atherosclerosis
• Hypertension
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Cigarette Smoking

Assessment Findings:

There are different types of Angina

1. Stable angina pectoris- occurs with exertion, it is releieved by rest and does not increase in frequency or severity.
2. Variant or Prinzmetal angina-  is usually caused by coronary artery spasms.
3. Silent Angina- is usually asymptomatic myocardial ischemia that is associated with diabetes mellitus and hypertension.

• usually describes as a (squeezing, heavy discomfort pressure)
• Pain* is the # 1 symptom.  Substernal pain that can radiate to neck, jaw and back
• may be relieved by rest.
• Tachycardia, palpitations

Diagnostic Tests:

• The ECG will show an ST segment depression and T wave inversion during the anginal pain.
• The Holter monitor will reveal an ST segment depression and T wave inversion.

Interventions:

• Hold nitrates if the BP is less than 90 mm Hg.