Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI)
What are the first few steps if you encounter a patient experiencing a suspected AMI?
1. Position patient comfortably 2. Assess ABC's and activate EMS 3. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula or non-rebreather mask: 2-6 L/minute. 4. Administer Nitroglycerin either from patient's own supply (with history of angina pectoris) OR Administer Nitroglycerin from the emergency kit (no history of angina pectoris): Maximum of 3 doses of Nitroglycerin within 15 minute period.
As soon as it is known that the patient is truly experiencing an AMI, what is the appropriate treatment?
Administration of aspirin tablet orally; patient should chew 325 mg due to quickness of absorption (20 minutes). Vital signs monitored and recorded every 5 minutes.
What is Acute Myocardial Infarction caused by?
Atherosclerosis, Thrombus, Spasm.
What are the symptoms due to Acute Myocardial Infractions women typically show?
Atypical discomfort, upper abdominal pain, shortness of breath, fatigue.
If cardiac arrest occurs due to AMI, what should be done?
CPR with an AED should be performed immediately, (within 3-5 minutes)
What are the classic symptoms of AMI?
Chest pain lasting 20 minutes or longer.
What are the typical symptoms for diabetics experiencing an AMI?
Diabetics are more likely to suffer "silent" MI's.
What is Acute Myocardial Infarction also known as?
Heart attack.
Where are the most frequent locations of pain due to an AMI?
Mid-to-lower sternal areas of the chest May radiate down arms, shoulders, jaw, or back.
What is Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI)?
Necrosis of the myocardial tissue caused by an interruption of blood flow. (acute reduction in oxygenated blood flow to the myocardium)
What is used for pain management due to an Acute Myocardial Infarction?
Nitrous oxide in conjunction with Oxygen at a concentration approximating 35%.
What are the clinical manifestations (symptoms) of Acute Myocardial Infarction?
Weakness, nausea, vomiting, dyspnea, syncope, anxiety, clutching chest and an intense sense of impending doom.
When should Nitroglycerin not be administered to a patient?
When a patient has a systolic pressure less than 100 mg.
