Nursing Care for Patients with ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction:A Case Study

Abstract

ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a common medical emergency condition with high mortality rate. The most severe complication of STEMI is a cardiogenic shock and the delay in revascularization is a major cause of death from STEMI. Reperfusion with thrombolytic therapy within 30 minutes (Door to needle time within 30 minutes) of admission facilitates effective revascularization. Thus, time of thrombolytic therapy is directly related to survival rate. Hence, nurses must be knowledgeable and proficient in screening for STEMI, interpreting ECG results, providing care, monitoring any complications, coordinating care to expedite thrombolytic therapy, and safely referring patients for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

In this case study, Streptokinase was given; however, revascularization was not capable. The ECG was unchanged. The patient was referred to tertiary care hospital for PCI. After the proper management, the patient’s condition was stable and discharged from hospital.