What does the acronym MONA stand for in the management of chest pain?

The acronym MONA stands for Monitor, Oxygen, Nitroglycerin, and Aspirin, which are critical components in the immediate management of chest pain, particularly in cases suspected to be related to acute coronary syndrome or myocardial infarction.

Monitoring is essential for assessing the patient's vital signs and cardiac rhythm to identify any immediate complications. Administration of oxygen can help improve oxygen delivery to the heart, especially if the patient is hypoxic. Nitroglycerin is used for its potent vasodilatory effects, which can alleviate chest pain by decreasing myocardial oxygen demand and improving blood flow to the heart muscle. Aspirin plays a crucial role in the management because it reduces platelet aggregation, which is vital in preventing further clot formation in the event of coronary artery obstruction.

By ensuring that these four steps are taken, healthcare providers can effectively manage a patient experiencing chest pain, aiming to relieve symptoms and minimize myocardial damage. The other options presented do not align with established guidelines for the acute treatment of chest pain, as they include incorrect medications or procedures that are not typically part of the initial response to this urgent clinical situation.