Clinical meaning
A myocardial infarction occurs when coronary artery occlusion (usually from plaque rupture and thrombus formation) interrupts blood supply to the myocardium. Without oxygen, myocytes undergo irreversible injury within 20-40 minutes, releasing cardiac biomarkers (troponin, CK-MB) into the bloodstream. The nurse assists with monitoring, administers medications as ordered, and reports changes in the patient's condition.
Exam relevance
Risk factors: - Coronary artery disease - Hypertension - Diabetes mellitus - Smoking - Hyperlipidemia - Obesity - Family history of premature CAD - Sedentary lifestyle
Diagnostics: - Monitor continuous cardiac telemetry as directed - Report changes in rhythm or new ST changes to the RN - Monitor serial troponin results as reported - Record vital signs per ordered frequency - Monitor oxygen saturation continuously