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Acute MI in Dental Office — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateMedical Emergencies in DentistryAcute MI in Dental OfficeNDEB AFK

A 65-year-old patient experiences crushing substernal chest pain radiating to the left arm during a dental procedure. The pain does not resolve with one dose of sublingual nitroglycerin. What is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: D — Activate emergency medical services (call 911) and administer aspirin 325 mg

Crushing substernal chest pain not responsive to nitroglycerin suggests acute myocardial infarction. Activate EMS (911), administer aspirin 325 mg (chewed for rapid absorption unless allergic), administer oxygen if SpO₂ <94%, continue nitroglycerin (up to 3 doses every 5 minutes if SBP >90 mmHg), and be prepared for CPR and AED if cardiac arrest occurs. Do NOT discharge the patient to travel alone.

Reference: AHA – Guidelines for CPR and ECC, 2020; CDA – Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office