Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

How do elderly patients typically mask a myocardial infarction (MI)?

1. They exhibit excessive pain awareness

2. They have a decreased sensation to pain

3. They show heightened anxiety symptoms

4. They display unusual behavioral changes

The correct answer is: They have a decreased sensation to pain

Elderly patients often experience a diminished physiological response to pain, which can lead to a decreased sensation of pain during a myocardial infarction (MI). This phenomenon can result from a variety of factors, including age-related changes in the nervous system, alterations in pain perception, and comorbidities that affect how pain is felt. Consequently, they may not report the classic symptoms of an MI, such as severe chest pain, which can result in delays in seeking necessary medical attention. By not displaying the traditional signs of an MI, these patients may instead show atypical symptoms, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. For instance, they might present with fatigue, confusion, or other vague symptoms rather than the expected intense chest pain. This underscores the importance of being vigilant and recognizing that elderly patients may manifest a heart attack differently than younger individuals, relying on comprehensive assessment rather than standard symptom recognition alone.