What is a common finding on ECG for a patient with NSTEMI?

In the context of a non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), the ECG is often indicative of underlying ischemia without the pronounced ST elevation seen in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Patients experiencing NSTEMI may present with an ECG that appears normal, or it may show ST segment depression or T-wave inversions. These findings signal myocardial ischemia without the full thickness injury to the heart muscle that would lead to ST segment elevation.

While a normal ECG can occur, the presence of ST segment depression is particularly significant as it reflects a lack of blood flow, suggesting a partial blockage in the coronary arteries. It’s important to recognize that not all patients with NSTEMI will have overt abnormalities on their ECG, but when abnormalities do present, they often manifest in the form of ST depression or T-wave changes. This differentiates NSTEMI from STEMI, where ST elevation would be an expected finding.

Other options do not accurately represent the common findings associated with NSTEMI. For instance, ST elevation is not characteristic of NSTEMI; only the presence of arrhythmias does not link directly to NSTEMI specifically and can occur in many cardiac conditions; high amplitude T-waves can be associated with