Myocardial Infarction Flashcards
What is a myocardial infarction (MI)?
Necrosis of myocardial tissue due to ischemia, usually caused by blockage of a coronary artery by a thrombus
What are the two main types of myocardial infarction based on ECG changes?
ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).
What is STEMI?
Complete and persistent blockage of a coronary artery resulting in myocardial necrosis.
What is NSTEMI?
Partial or intermittent blockage of a coronary artery, usually resulting in myocardial necrosis.
How is unstable angina different from NSTEMI?
Unstable angina involves partial arterial blockage but does not cause myocardial necrosis.
What is acute coronary syndrome (ACS)?
A spectrum of acute myocardial ischemia, including STEMI, NSTEMI, and unstable angina.
What are common complications of MI?
Heart failure
Angina
Arrhythmias
Depression
Sudden death (e.g., due to another MI or arrhythmia)
What are the key secondary prevention measures after an acute MI?
Cardiac rehabilitation (before hospital discharge).
Drug treatments: ACE inhibitors, dual antiplatelet therapy, beta-blockers, statins.
Lifestyle modifications: Diet, physical activity, alcohol consumption, smoking cessation, weight management.
What information should the hospital discharge summary include for an MI patient?
Confirmation of MI diagnosis.
Results of investigations.
Details of drug titration and monitoring requirements.
Plans for future management and follow-up.
Advice on secondary prevention.
What are the responsibilities of primary care for an MI patient?
Encourage participation in cardiac rehabilitation.
Prescribe and monitor drug treatments for secondary prevention.
Reinforce lifestyle advice (e.g., smoking cessation, weight loss).
Manage risk factors (e.g., hypertension, diabetes).
Manage complications (e.g., angina, depression).
Ensure follow-up attendance.
Address patient concerns (e.g., returning to work).
Offer information on welfare and social support.
What are the primary drug treatments for secondary prevention after an MI?
ACE inhibitors (or ARBs if intolerant).
Dual antiplatelet therapy.
Beta-blockers.
Statins.
What lifestyle changes are encouraged after an MI?
Healthy diet.
Regular physical activity.
Moderate or no alcohol consumption.
Smoking cessation.
Weight management.
