Emergency Medicine Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Preparation

Question: 1 / 400

What key factor differentiates stable angina from unstable angina?

Duration of chest pain

Frequency of episodes

Occurrence at rest or minimal exertion

The key factor that differentiates stable angina from unstable angina is the occurrence of pain at rest or with minimal exertion. Stable angina typically presents with predictable patterns, where episodes are triggered by specific activities or stress and resolve with rest or nitroglycerin. In contrast, unstable angina is characterized by chest pain that can occur unpredictably, often at rest, or can be more severe and prolonged than what the patient has experienced in the past. This change in the frequency or intensity of episodes, particularly when pain occurs at rest, signifies a worsening of the cardiac condition and may indicate a higher risk of myocardial infarction.

While factors such as the duration of chest pain, frequency of episodes, and radiation of pain can provide helpful information about a patient's angina, the critical distinction that denotes unstable angina is its unpredictable nature and occurrence without significant exertion.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Radiation of pain

Next Question

Report this question

Download Emergency Medicine Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Preparation PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy