Cardiology

ST-segment monitoring across the continuum

Barbara Leeper, MN, RN, CCRN,
Baylor University Medical Center
Dallas, Texas USA

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Introduction

The technology and opportunity to provide continuous ST-segment monitoring has been available for many years. However, recent studies in this area have shown the practice to be insufficient. [1] Two of the most common barriers to ST-segment monitoring are the high frequency of false ST-segment alarms and a lack of confidence in the technology by many physicians and nurses. [1] The purpose of this paper is to review recent developments in ST-segment monitoring and identify opportunities to improve monitoring practices across the continuum of care.

An important group of patients who benefit from continuous ST-segment monitoring across the continuum from admission to hospital discharge are those with acute coronary syndromes and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). [1] The use of continuous ST-segment monitoring for the patient with acute coronary syndromes gives healthcare providers the ability to identify and reverse ongoing ischemia by initiating interventions earlier, thereby preventing or interrupting myocardial cell death. Continuous ST-segment monitoring of the culprit artery in the patient experiencing an AMI has been found to be a determinant of survival during and following the administration of a fibrinolytic agent. [2] Not only is information available regarding early reperfusion of the culprit artery but also the sustained patency of the vessel as well.

Editor's comment

The above introductory text has been published with permission from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (http://www.aacn.org/).

You may click the link below to go to the AACN continuing education test center, read the complete article with references, and obtain CE credit if you so desire.

Last updated: 1 September 2001Created
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