Emergency care of the patient with a heart attack

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.