BCEN CEN Practice Question

While both benzodiazepines and beta-blockers may be used to manage symptoms associated with anxiety or cardiac conditions, the immediate priority is to differentiate the cause. The Valsalva maneuver, a non-pharmacological intervention, can help distinguish if the symptoms are related to mitral valve prolapse or a panic attack. Worsening of symptoms during the maneuver may suggest cardiac involvement as decreased ventricular volume accentuates the prolapse, while a decrease in symptoms may indicate a panic attack due to the vagal response. The 12-lead ECG has already been completed. Administering aspirin is not indicated without evidence of acute coronary syndrome. An echocardiogram is a useful diagnostic tool for long-term management but is not the priority intervention for differentiating the cause of acute symptoms in the ED.