Acute Coronary Syndrome-Acute Myocardial Infarction Flashcards
What does the pain of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) signal?
The actual death of cells in the area of the heart muscle where blood flow is obstructed
Once dead, the cells cannot be revived and will eventually turn to scar tissue.
What is critical in treating a heart attack?
Fast action to clear the arterial blockage
The sooner the blockage is cleared, the fewer cells that may die.
How long after blood flow is cut off do heart muscle cells begin to die?
About 30 minutes
After about 2 hours, as many as one-half of the cells can be dead.
What percentage of heart muscle cells will be dead after 4 to 6 hours?
More than 90%
This emphasizes the urgency of treatment.
What two treatments can prevent permanent damage to the heart muscle if done early?
- Clot-busting (thrombolytic) medications
- Angioplasty (mechanical clearing of the artery)
These treatments are effective if done within the first few hours after symptom onset.
Where is an AMI more likely to occur in the heart?
In the larger, thick-walled left ventricle
The left ventricle needs more blood and oxygen than the right ventricle.
List some common signs and symptoms of an AMI.
- Sudden onset of weakness, nausea, and sweating
- Chest pain, discomfort, or pressure
- Pain in lower jaw, arms, back, abdomen, or neck
- Irregular heartbeat and syncope
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea/vomiting
- Pink, frothy sputum
- Sudden death
These symptoms may vary from person to person.
How does the pain of AMI differ from angina?
- May occur at any time
- Lasts between 30 minutes and several hours
- May or may not be relieved by rest or nitroglycerin
This highlights the different characteristics of AMI pain.
What is a silent myocardial infarction?
An AMI without classic chest pain
It may present with other symptoms, especially in older patients and women.
What should you do if a patient has chest discomfort?
Assume the worst and conduct a thorough assessment
This is important even if the patient does not complain of chest pain.
What is the best practice regarding an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) when a heart attack is suspected?
Ensure the AED is close by
This minimizes delay to the first shock if needed.
