Advanced Medical Life Support (AMLS)

When treating a patient post-cardiac stent placement experiencing chest pain and vomiting, which information is most concerning?

1. Familial history of heart disease

2. Recent stent placement

3. Nausea and vomiting

4. Daily use of aspirin

The correct answer is: Recent stent placement

Recent stent placement is particularly concerning in the context of a patient experiencing chest pain and vomiting because it raises the possibility of serious complications, such as stent thrombosis or restenosis. Following the placement of a coronary stent, patients are at increased risk for these conditions, especially if they are not adequately treated with anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications. The presence of chest pain after stent placement could indicate that the stent is not functioning properly or that the patient is experiencing a cardiac event. Since vomiting can lead to complications such as dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, it further complicates the picture. Overall, the recent stent placement is critical to consider, as it helps clinicians assess the risk for potentially life-threatening scenarios that require immediate intervention.