A nurse is caring for a client suspected of a cocaine-induced myocardial infarction (MI). When asked to describe how cocaine can induce an MI, which rationale will the nurse use to respond?

Question

A) Significantly increases the serum triglyceride level, leading to the development of an atheroma.
B) Alters the body's clotting mechanisms, leading to thrombus formation.
C) Increases sympathetic nervous system stimulation, increasing blood pressure and vasoconstriction.
D) Alters electrolyte balance, leading to arrhythmias.

Answer 1

Answer: C

Acute MI may also develop as a result of cocaine intoxication. Cocaine increases sympathetic nervous system activity by both increasing the release of catecholamines from central and peripheral stores and interfering with the reuptake of catecholamines. This increased catecholamine concentration stimulates the heart rate and increases its contractility, increases the automaticity of cardiac tissues and the risk of dysrhythmias, and causes vasoconstriction and hypertension. The other answers do not occur with cocaine intoxication.