Factors predicting decision-making time among acute myocardial infarction patients with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract

Background: The delayed decision-making time for patients with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) from symptom onset is still unable to conclude the cause clearly.

Objective: This study aimed to study the factors affecting the decision-making time for seeking treatment in patients with NSTEMI.

Methods: The study samples included 100 patients with NSTEMI who received treatment at two tertiary hospitals in Thailand. Using questionnaires on demographic data form, comorbidity, illness perception, anxiety, and social support. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression.

Results: Median decision-making time was 90 minutes. Illness perception had the highest predictive coefficient (β = - 0.294, P < 0.01), anxiety (β = - 0.237, P < 0.05), comorbid (β = 0.229, P < 0.05), social support (β = - 0.207, P < 0.05), use of emergency medical services or EMS (β = 0.125, P < 0.05), and hospital experience (β = 0.117, P < 0.05), were statistically significant predictors of decision-making time in seeking treatment.

Conclusion: All factors were able to predict the decision-making time for NSTEMI patients, and the results can be used to develop a program that encourages NSTEMI patients to have time to make appropriate decisions about receiving treatment.