American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

Which treatment is the highest priority for STEMI?

1. Aspirin 325 mg PO

2. Cardiac catheterization/PCI

3. Beta blockers

4. Fibrinolysis

The correct answer is: Aspirin 325 mg PO

In the context of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI), the highest priority treatment is aimed at rapidly restoring blood flow to the heart muscle to minimize damage. Aspirin plays a critical role in this initial management phase. Administering aspirin at a dose of 325 mg orally helps inhibit platelet aggregation, which is essential for preventing further clot formation and allowing for improved blood flow to the ischemic myocardium. While cardiac catheterization/PCI, beta blockers, and fibrinolysis are all important components of the comprehensive treatment plan for STEMI, the immediate administration of aspirin is critical for obtaining rapid therapeutic effects. It is typically the first medication given to patients upon diagnosis of a STEMI, as it acts quickly and can be administered safely before further interventions like PCI or fibrinolysis are performed. Fibrinolysis and PCI are significant next steps that focus on reperfusion but are often facilitated after initial treatment with aspirin. Beta blockers help in managing heart rate and reducing myocardial oxygen demand but are not prioritized as the first treatment in the acute setting. Thus, the immediate administration of aspirin is the most critical first step in addressing the life-threatening nature of STEMI.