Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following describes shortness of breath in the context of silent MI?

1. Common in all patients

2. Only occurs with exercise

3. Can be the only symptom experienced

4. Indicates a less serious condition

The correct answer is: Can be the only symptom experienced

Shortness of breath can indeed be the only symptom experienced during a silent myocardial infarction (MI), which is a heart attack that occurs without the typical symptoms such as chest pain. Silent MIs are particularly insidious because they may not present the classic signs most people associate with heart attacks, making it crucial to recognize other potential indicators like shortness of breath. Patients experiencing a silent MI may not exhibit the usual distress signals, and the absence of more recognizable symptoms can lead to a delay in seeking medical attention. Therefore, recognizing that shortness of breath alone can signal a silent MI highlights the importance of understanding this condition, especially in populations that may not typically present with classic symptoms, such as the elderly or those with diabetes. In contrast, shortness of breath being common in all patients overlooks the unique presentation of silent MIs; it may not occur in every case. Saying it only occurs with exercise would falsely limit the symptom to physical exertion, ignoring instances where it can manifest at rest. Lastly, suggesting that it indicates a less serious condition downplays the severity of a silent MI, which can be as critical as a symptomatic one.