Pathophysiology
Myocardial Infarction
Myocardial infarction (MI) results from prolonged ischemia causing irreversible necrosis of heart muscle due to obstructed coronary blood flow.
Clinical Presentation
- Substernal chest pain radiating to jaw, neck, or left arm
- Diaphoresis and cool, clammy skin
- Dyspnea and lightheadedness
- Nausea and vomiting
Diagnostic Findings
- Elevated Troponin I and T (gold standard)
- ST-segment elevation on 12-lead ECG
- Q-wave development indicative of previous MI
- Elevated CK-MB isoenzyme
Nursing Interventions
- Administer oxygen to maintain SpO2 >94%
- Administer sublingual nitroglycerin as ordered
- Administer aspirin per protocol
- Prepare for emergent percutaneous coronary intervention
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