In the field, how can you differentiate angina from myocardial infarction and what are the EMS actions?

In the field, how can you differentiate angina from myocardial infarction and what are the EMS actions?

• A. Angina lasts longer than MI and does not respond to rest
• B. Angina is chest pressure that’s typically short-lived and may respond to rest; MI is prolonged, more severe, or accompanied by diaphoresis, nausea, or SOB
• C. MI occurs only in elderly
• D. Angina is always accompanied by vomiting

Answer: (C)

Distinguishing angina from a myocardial infarction in the field hinges on how the pain behaves and what other symptoms appear. Angina usually presents as chest pressure or discomfort that is brief and often improves with rest or nitroglycerin. A myocardial infarction, however, tends to involve more intense pain that lasts longer and is not relieved by rest; it is frequently accompanied by sweating, nausea or vomiting, and shortness of breath. EMS actions start with treating any suspected heart attack as a time‑sensitive emergency. Ensure the airway, breathing, and circulation are stable, place the patient on a monitor, and check vitals. If the patient has a prescribed nitroglycerin and blood pressure is adequate, assist with it; give chewable aspirin if there are no contraindications. Provide supplemental oxygen if the patient is hypoxic or in distress. If available, obtain a 12‑lead ECG and activate the STEMI protocol with rapid transport to a PCI‑capable facility, notifying the hospital in advance. Monitor for deterioration and be prepared for airway or cardiac arrest management. Remember, MI can occur at any age, so treat new chest pain as potentially serious.

Distinguishing angina from a myocardial infarction in the field hinges on how the pain behaves and what other symptoms appear. Angina usually presents as chest pressure or discomfort that is brief and often improves with rest or nitroglycerin. A myocardial infarction, however, tends to involve more intense pain that lasts longer and is not relieved by rest; it is frequently accompanied by sweating, nausea or vomiting, and shortness of breath.

EMS actions start with treating any suspected heart attack as a time‑sensitive emergency. Ensure the airway, breathing, and circulation are stable, place the patient on a monitor, and check vitals. If the patient has a prescribed nitroglycerin and blood pressure is adequate, assist with it; give chewable aspirin if there are no contraindications. Provide supplemental oxygen if the patient is hypoxic or in distress. If available, obtain a 12‑lead ECG and activate the STEMI protocol with rapid transport to a PCI‑capable facility, notifying the hospital in advance. Monitor for deterioration and be prepared for airway or cardiac arrest management. Remember, MI can occur at any age, so treat new chest pain as potentially serious.