These programs enhance the treatment and outcomes of people with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction. (STEMI)The STEMI / Vital Heart Response programs provide advice and urgent emergency care for STEMI (ST Segment Elevated MI) patients who present with chest pain and total blockage of a coronary artery. This is a true medical emergency, representing the deadliest type of heart attack. The critical relationship of restoring blood flow and chance of survival in patients can be measured in minutes. With the 2 key programs available patients presenting with STEMI are assessed right away and in consultation with Interventional Cardiologists in Calgary and Edmonton. Patients may be treated on site using clot busting medications and / or transferred to a care centre that can perform advanced procedures to open the artery.When a serious heart attack called a ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is suspected, EMS or hospital staff do a heart test called an electrocardiogram (ECG). The ECG is sent to a heart specialist for review.
The heart specialist works with the care team to decide on the best treatment. Treatment may include medicine (thrombolytic) to break up a blood clot or a procedure (percutaneous coronary intervention “PCI”) to open a blocked blood vessel in the heart. The patient may also need to be transported quickly to a hospital that provides specialized heart (cardiac) care.
The STEMI / Vital Heart Response (VHR) Program helps connect EMS, hospitals, and heart specialists so they can work together to treat patients. The goal is to help patients across Alberta get the right care as quickly as possible.
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