CARDIAC CONDITIONS - Myocardial infarction (Heart attack)

A myocardial infarction, also called a heart attack, results from permanent damage to an area of the heart muscle. This happens when the blood supply to the area is interrupted because of narrowed or blocked blood vessels.

Signs & Symptoms

Persistent vice-like central chest pain. Unlike angina the pain does not ease with rest Shortness of breath Radiating pain down arms (usually the left arm) Pins and needles in hands and fingers Nausea Weakness, often sudden and extreme Sweating Feeling 'unwell'. Sense of impending doom Pale grey complexion and blueness at the lips Rapid, weak or irregular pulse Collapse, often without warning

Treatment

Make the patient as comfortable as possible. A half seated position (on the floor), with the patient's head and shoulders well supported and his knees bent, is often best Calm the patient and give plenty of reassurance and encouragement Give oxygen therapy (100% mask @ 15 litres per minute) If the patient has his own medication, e.g. angina (tablets or a 'puffer'), let him administer it himself. Help if necessary Constantly monitor the situation: record breathing and pulse every 10 minutes Be prepared to ventilate or carry out CPR

Back to Reference page