ACS - acute coronary syndrome Flashcards
What is ACS
A spectrum of conditions which include MI with or without ST segment elevation
How are unstable angina and NSTEMI caused
Partial blockage of a blood vessel
Where is myocardial necrosis more evident, NSTEMI or STEMI
STEMI
What is STEMI
Complete blockage of blood vessel = causes irreversible necrosis of heart muscle. It is the worse form of ACS
What levels can we measure to detect heart attack
Troponin levels
Symptoms of ACS
Chest pain
Can spread to left arm
Can be triggered by physical exertion or stress
Stops within a few mins of resting
What is stable angina
Predictable, symptoms occur on activity, stop when resting
What is unstable angina
Unpredictable, chest pain is still there on resting and is for longer and more severe
What is the initial management of ACS
Why is GTN, iv opioids e.g. morphine given ASAP in initial management of ACS?
Pain relief
Why is Aspirin given in initial management of ACS?
To limit clot size and allow blood to flow
Why is oxygen given in initial management of ACS?
Only if needed
In what instance would insulin be given in initial management of ACS
If glucose is higher than 11mmol/l
What is the secondary prevention of ACS
Why are nitrates useful in angina
They are coronary vasodilators