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DEFINITIONThe death of the cells in the area of the heart muscle where blood flow is obstructed can lead to heart attack.FACTS- approximately 30 minutes after blood flow is cut off some heart muscle cells begin to die - after about 2 hours half of the cells in the area can be dead- after 4 to 6 hours more than 90% of the cells will be dead
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMSEarly symptoms generally include chest or upper abdominal sensation of pressure or burning, and are often mistaken for indigestion* sudden onset of weakness, nausea, and sweating* cheat pain, discomfort, or pressure that is often crushing or squeezing* pain, discomfort, or pressure in the lower jaw, arms, back, abdomen, or neck* irregular heartbeat and syncope (fainting)* shortness of breath, or dyspnea* low blood pressure
PHYSICAL FINDINGS:1. General appearance- patient often appears frightened- the skin is pale or ashen gray- there may be nausea, vomiting, and cold sweat2. Pulse- the pulse rate increases as a normal response to pain, stress, fear3. Blood pressure- may fall as a result of diminished cardiac output and diminished capability of the left ventricle to pump4. Respiration- respirations are usually normal- a difficulty breathing is common with cardiac compromise5. Mental status- sometimes patients experience an overwhelming feeling of impending doom
EMERGENCY CARE- activate EMS- provide emotional support, reassure and calm the patient- keep the patient at rest- place the patient in comfortable position- ensure an open airway and adequate breathing- cover to insure body heat- ask if the patient took nitroglycerin, when, how much, and over what period of time- provide oxygen- monitor vital signs
CONSEQUENCES OF HEART ATTACK1. Sudden death2. Cardiogenic shock3. CHF (Congestive Heart Failure)