Angina

Angina is a symptom of myocardial ischemia, not a final diagnosis. It occurs when oxygen delivery through the coronary circulation cannot meet myocardial demand, often because atherosclerotic narrowing limits flow during exertion. Coronary spasm and microvascular dysfunction can produce the same mismatch even when major coronary arteries are not obstructed. A familiar, brief, exertional pattern suggests chronic stable angina; new, lower-threshold, prolonged, resting, or poorly relieved symptoms may indicate acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The first nursing decision is whether myocardial perfusion may be threatened now, followed by action within RPN authority and local protocol.