Pathophysiology

of
Myocardial Infarction

Reported By:
MARYROSS M. ESPUERTA
 Myocardial Infarction (MI)
o refers to tissue death (infarction) of the heart muscle (myocardium). It is
a type of acute coronary syndrome, which describes a sudden or short-
term change in symptoms related to blood flow to the heart.

o commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow decreases or

stops to a part of the heart, causing damage to the heart muscle. The
most common symptom is chest pain or discomfort which may travel into
the shoulder, arm, back, neck, or jaw.
Anatomy of Myocardial Infarction
 Signs & Symptoms
o Sensations that may feel in Chest or Arms that may spread to
the neck, jaw or back: pressure, tightness, pain or squeezing
or aching
o Nausea ingestion, heartburn or abdominal pain
o Dyspnea
o Cold sweat
o Fatigue
o Light headedness or sudden dizziness
o Asymptomatic
o typically seen in patients with diabetic neuropathy
o nerve fibers are damaged and impair their ability to sense pain
Tests and Diagnosis
o ECG
o Blood Tests
o Chest X-ray
o Coronary Catheterization
(Angiogram)
o Exercise Stress Test
o CT Scan or MRI
Medical Interventions:
o Angioplasty
o Atherectomy (Catheter)
o Bypass surgery
o Cardiomyoplasty
o Heart Transplant
o Radiofrequency Ablation
o Stent Procedure
o Trans Myocardial Revascularization
PROGNOSIS
During the first 30 days after a myocardial
infarction, death can occur due to cardiogenic
shock, sudden cardiac death, heart failure,
mechanical cardiac complications, or another MI
event. However, due to recent developments in
reperfusion techniques, in-hospital death rates
have decreased from 5.3% to 3.8%.
NURSING DIAGNOSIS
o Decreased cardiac output r/t changes in the frequency
ō heart rhythm
o Impaired tissue perfusion r/t decrease in cardiac output
o Ineffective airway clearance r/t accumulation of
secretions
o Impaired gas exchange r/t pulmonary edema
o Activity intolerance r/t physical weakness
o Self-care deficit r/t lack of information
 NURSING INTERVENTIONS
o Fluid status
Monitor for any symptoms of fluid overload, I&O

o Emotional support to patient and S.O

Explain procedures/technology, relieve anxiety

o Document based on unit guidelines

o Patient education/prevention
Assess needs early, referrals (SS, Cardiac rehab), others
(risk factor management, psychological adjustment

o Complimentary/Alternative therapy