After evaluating chest pain, which statement about initial management is true?

After evaluating chest pain, which statement about initial management is true?

• A. Aspirin is never given in acute coronary syndrome.
• B. Oxygen and aspirin are commonly given together as part of initial management.
• C. Nitroglycerin should always be given before aspirin.
• D. Vital signs should not be considered during medication administration.

Answer: (B)

Early management of suspected acute coronary syndrome often includes giving aspirin and, if needed, oxygen. Aspirin works quickly to inhibit platelet clumping, reducing the chance of a new clot forming, so it’s given promptly (usually chewable 160–325 mg) unless there’s a contraindication. Oxygen is used to improve oxygen delivery to the heart when the patient is hypoxemic or in respiratory distress. It’s not mandatory for every chest pain patient, but when indicated it’s started early and can be given together with aspirin as part of initial care. The other statements aren’t correct because aspirin is indeed used in ACS, nitrates are administered after assessing the patient and ensuring no contraindications (not universally before aspirin), and vital signs must be monitored during medication administration to guide treatment and ensure safety.

Early management of suspected acute coronary syndrome often includes giving aspirin and, if needed, oxygen. Aspirin works quickly to inhibit platelet clumping, reducing the chance of a new clot forming, so it’s given promptly (usually chewable 160–325 mg) unless there’s a contraindication. Oxygen is used to improve oxygen delivery to the heart when the patient is hypoxemic or in respiratory distress. It’s not mandatory for every chest pain patient, but when indicated it’s started early and can be given together with aspirin as part of initial care.

The other statements aren’t correct because aspirin is indeed used in ACS, nitrates are administered after assessing the patient and ensuring no contraindications (not universally before aspirin), and vital signs must be monitored during medication administration to guide treatment and ensure safety.