The Patient With Acute Coronary Syndrome

Assessment
One of the most important aspects of care of the
patient with ACS is the assessment. It establishes
the patient’s baseline, identifies the patient’s needs,
and helps determine the priority of those needs.
Systematic assessment includes a careful history,
particularly as it relates to symptoms: chest pain or
discomfort, difficulty breathing (dyspnea),
palpitations, unusual fatigue, faintness (syncope), or
other possible indicators of myocardial ischemia.
Each symptom must be evaluated with regard to
time, duration, and the factors that precipitate the
symptom and relieve it, and in comparison with
previous symptoms. A focused physical assessment
is critical to detect complications and any change in
patient status. identifies important assessments and
possible findings.

Two IV lines are typically placed for any patient

with ACS to ensure
that access is available for administering emergency
medications. Medications are administered IV to
achieve rapid onset and to allow for
timely adjustment. After the patient’s condition
stabilizes, IV lines may
be changed to a saline lock to maintain IV access.