The Journal of cardiovascular nursing
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This article analyzes the literature describing factors affecting nurses' triage of emergency department (ED) patients with potential acute coronary syndrome (ACS), with particular attention paid to gender-based differences. ⋯ : Early reperfusion therapy is critical for optimal health outcomes in ACS. Triage nurses are ideally placed to minimize time to treatment for ACS. An understanding of the issues related to clinical decision making and triage allocation of women with ACS at triage is necessary to ensure appropriate treatment.
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Mortality from acute coronary syndromes has decreased. This achievement is based on the rapid recognition of possible acute coronary syndrome, obtaining an electrocardiogram for diagnosis, and the prompt initiation of therapy, including aspirin, oxygen, thrombolytics, and cardiac catheterization. The importance of rapid diagnosis and therapy is emphasized by American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) practice guidelines. However, these goals are not always met, and their failure leads to increased mortality. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency emergency department nurses report guideline-related activities when triaging patients for complaints suggestive of myocardial infarction. ⋯ We recommend tailored educational interventions be developed to improve nurses awareness of the importance of complying with the ACC/AHA standard of care practice goals and the necessity of achieving these goals all of the time as a path to improving patient outcome.