Emergency Care of the Patient with a Heart Attack

'the authors have produced an easy-to-read, well referenced, 'must have' book, which is ideal for both experienced and junior ED nurses'
Nick Castle, Emergency Nurse, December 2006 Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is the UK's biggest killer. Almost a quarter of a million people will have a heart attack each year. Acute Coronary Syndromes (ACS) carry a high mortality and morbidity and the evidence base for improved treatment and care is rapidly developing. An estimated 700,000 people will attend A and E departments in England and Wales annually with acute chest pain, most of them following a call for assistance to the ambulance service.
This short pocketbook highlights key areas of the assessment and care of the patient with (or suspected of having) an acute coronary syndrome. It is aimed at ambulance technicians and paramedics, emergency nurses, cardiac care unit staff, and others involved in the care of this group of patients whether in the community or hospital setting.

This book is particulary targeted at those without formal training or expertise in cardiology - helping to bridge the gap between specialist cardiac staff and emergency care personnel, including those in the pre-hospital environment
Comprehensive - the book deals with the full spectrum of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) investigationa nad management
Provides a step-by-step approach to the patient journey (critical Phase)