Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

Which of the following medications is used to relieve pain in acute coronary syndromes?

1. Oxygen

2. Hydrochlorothiazide

3. Morphine

4. Furosemide

The correct answer is: Morphine

In the context of acute coronary syndromes (ACS), the management of pain is a critical component of patient care. Morphine is an opioid analgesic that is specifically indicated for use in ACS due to its effectiveness in relieving severe pain as well as its ability to reduce anxiety and improve comfort in patients experiencing a myocardial infarction or unstable angina. Morphine works by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, leading to a decrease in the perception of pain. Additionally, it has vasodilatory effects, which can help to decrease myocardial oxygen demand by reducing preload and afterload, potentially stabilizing the patient's condition. This is particularly important during an acute event where every effort is made to minimize the heart's workload while addressing the patient's pain. In contrast, oxygen is typically administered to improve oxygenation rather than directly relieve pain, and while it can be important in managing ACS, it does not target pain relief. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic used to treat hypertension and fluid retention, which is not relevant in the immediate management of ACS. Furosemide, another diuretic, is often used in cases of congestive heart failure or fluid overload but is not a pain-relieving medication either. Understanding the role of morph