Management of a heart attack

The warning signs of heart attack vary and

usually last for at least 10 minutes.

The patient may get more than one of

these symptoms:

• discomfort or pain in the centre of

the chest. It may come suddenly or

start slowly over minutes. It may be

described as tightness, heaviness,

fullness, squeezing.

• the pain may be severe, moderate or

mild. Pain may spread to the neck,

throat or jaw, shoulders, the back,

and either or both arms.

Other signs and symptoms:

• shortness of breath

• sweating

• nausea / vomiting

• dizziness

Management

1.  Follow DRSABCD

2. Advise the patient to immediately stop

activity, and sit or lie down.

3.  If any symptoms are severe, get worse

quickly, or last for 10 minutes

• ensure call for an ambulance has been made

• do not hang up

4.  Loosen tight clothing.

5.  Give the conscious patient give 300 mg

(one tablet) of aspirin in water.

• Do not give aspirin to:

– those allergic to it

– those on anti-coagulant medication

(e.g. warfarin)

– or if their doctor has warned them against

taking aspirin.

• If patient has been prescribed medication

such as a tablet or oral spray for angina,

get it and assist the patient in taking it as

they have been directed.

6.  Stay with the patient

• monitor response and breathing

• be prepared to give CP

In an emergency, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance