Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What is an appropriate patient outcome criterion for a nursing diagnosis of activity intolerance after a myocardial infarction?

1. Agreeing to discontinue smoking

2. Ambulating 50 feet without experiencing dyspnea

3. Experiencing no dyspnea on exertion

4. Tolerating activity well

The correct answer is: Ambulating 50 feet without experiencing dyspnea

The chosen outcome criterion of ambulating 50 feet without experiencing dyspnea is appropriate because it provides a specific, measurable goal that directly reflects the patient's physical capability and tolerance for activity following a myocardial infarction. This outcome not only assesses endurance but also evaluates the patient's ability to perform a functional task—ambulation—while monitoring for any signs of respiratory distress. This criterion aligns well with the nursing diagnosis of activity intolerance, as it signifies progress in the patient's recovery and their ability to safely engage in physical activity, which is essential for rehabilitation after a heart event. Having a concrete distance to measure allows healthcare providers to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving the patient's activity tolerance. Other options, while they may pertain to the overall health and wellness of the patient, do not provide the same clear and relevant measure of activity intolerance following a myocardial infarction. Specifically, agreeing to discontinue smoking does not directly address activity levels, experiencing no dyspnea on exertion lacks a measurable component, and tolerating activity well is vague without defining what “activity” entails or under what conditions the patient is engaging in it.