Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

Which type of chest pain is typically described as a crushing sensation and often radiates to the left arm?

1. Pleural pain

2. Musculoskeletal pain

3. Gastroesophageal reflux pain

4. Angina pectoris

The correct answer is: Angina pectoris

Angina pectoris is characterized by a crushing sensation in the chest that often radiates to the left arm, neck, or jaw. This type of chest pain occurs due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, commonly caused by coronary artery disease. The pain is typically described as a feeling of tightness or pressure, and it can be triggered by physical exertion, stress, or heavy meals. This description aligns well with the classic presentation of angina, making it a key differentiator from other types of chest pain. For instance, pleural pain is usually sharp and can worsen with breathing or coughing, while musculoskeletal pain is often localized and related to movement or positional changes. Gastroesophageal reflux pain is generally associated with burning sensations and may be accompanied by acid regurgitation, which differs from the pressure-like discomfort typical of angina. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in assessing chest pain accurately and determining its potential cardiovascular implications.