What artery is associated with an inferior myocardial infarction?

Prepare for the Critical Care Paramedic Test with our comprehensive guide. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations to boost your readiness. Ace your exam!

An inferior myocardial infarction typically involves the right coronary artery (RCA), which supplies blood to the inferior aspect of the heart. In the majority of right-dominant coronary systems, the RCA gives off branches that supply the inferior wall of the left ventricle through the posterior descending artery (PDA). When an obstruction occurs in the RCA, it can lead to ischemia and infarction of the inferior wall, resulting in specific changes on an electrocardiogram (ECG), such as ST-segment elevations in the inferior leads (II, III, and aVF).

The other options refer to different areas of the heart supplied by other arteries. The left anterior descending artery (LAD) primarily supplies the anterior wall and part of the interventricular septum, while the left circumflex artery (LCX) mainly supplies the lateral wall of the left ventricle. Though the PDA is also involved in the supply of the inferior heart, it's a branch of the RCA rather than an independent artery associated with inferior myocardial infarctions. Thus, the RCA is the correct choice related to inferior myocardial infarction.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy