AEMCA Practice Exam

For a STEMI diagnosis, what does a 12-lead show?

1. A STEMI is characterized by a 2mm elevation in specific leads

2. A STEMI is characterized by lowered BGL

3. A STEMI is characterized by a GCS under 10

4. A STEMI is characterized by a CTAS 1 rating

The correct answer is: A STEMI is characterized by a 2mm elevation in specific leads

A STEMI, or ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction, is identified on a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) primarily by the presence of significant ST-segment elevation in specific leads. The criterion often referenced is an elevation of at least 2mm in the ST segment in contiguous leads, typically those that correspond to the affected area of the heart. This elevation indicates acute myocardial injury and is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention. The other options do not directly relate to the ECG findings that define a STEMI. Blood glucose levels, Glasgow Coma Scale ratings, and CTAS (Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale) ratings are not diagnostic criteria for a STEMI and do not provide the needed information about cardiac ischemia or injury. Therefore, option A accurately captures the defining characteristic of a STEMI as seen on a 12-lead ECG.