North Carolina CNA Written Practice Exam

What is a typical symptom that might indicate a heart attack?

1. Stomach discomfort

2. Chest pain

3. Back pain

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

A typical symptom that might indicate a heart attack is chest pain, which is often the most recognized sign. Chest pain can manifest as pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest that may last for more than a few minutes or go away and come back. However, heart attack symptoms can vary among individuals and can sometimes present in unexpected ways. For example, stomach discomfort can occur, as some people may experience nausea, indigestion, or a feeling similar to heartburn. Additionally, back pain can be relevant, particularly in women, as some may experience discomfort in their back instead of the more typical chest pain. Given that a heart attack can present with various symptoms, including chest pain, stomach discomfort, and back pain, acknowledging that all of these could indicate a potential heart attack is essential for recognizing urgent medical situations. Thus, selecting the option that encompasses all of these symptoms highlights the importance of a broad understanding of heart attack indicators.