Emergency Steps to Take During a Heart Attack: A Family Guide

Q: Emergency Steps to Take During a Heart Attack: A Family Guide

Hello Bear： First, it is essential to have regular follow-up treatment at the cardiology outpatient clinic. <br>You should keep sublingual nitroglycerin tablets at home for chest pain relief. <br>During an episode, provide oxygen (it is best to have a small oxygen tank at home) a

How to handle a myocardial infarction in an emergency?

Hello, my mother has a history of myocardial infarction, and we are concerned about the possibility of another episode.
I would like to know what we can do as a family while transporting her to the hospital if it happens again.
Thank you.

bear, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/01/02

Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine

Hello Bear: First, it is essential to have regular follow-up treatment at the cardiology outpatient clinic.
You should keep sublingual nitroglycerin tablets at home for chest pain relief.
During an episode, provide oxygen (it is best to have a small oxygen tank at home) and immediately contact emergency services (dial 911) to be transported to the hospital for emergency treatment.

Reply Date: 2001/01/02

More Info

In the unfortunate event that your mother experiences another heart attack, it is crucial for you and your family to be prepared and know the emergency steps to take while en route to the hospital. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you manage this critical situation effectively.

Recognizing the Signs of a Heart Attack
First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack. Common signs include:
- Chest pain or discomfort that may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

- Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

- Shortness of breath, which may occur with or without chest discomfort.

- Other signs may include cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

If your mother exhibits any of these symptoms, it is vital to act quickly.

Emergency Steps to Take
1. Call Emergency Services: Immediately call 911 or your local emergency number. Time is of the essence in a heart attack, and professional medical help should be on the way as soon as possible.

2. Keep Her Calm: Encourage your mother to remain calm and sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate the situation, so reassuring her can help manage her anxiety.

3. Administer Aspirin: If your mother is conscious and not allergic to aspirin, you can give her a standard dose (usually 325 mg) of aspirin. Aspirin can help thin the blood and improve blood flow to the heart. However, do not give her aspirin if she has a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or if she is unable to swallow.

4. Nitroglycerin: If your mother has been prescribed nitroglycerin for her heart condition, help her take it as directed. Nitroglycerin can help relieve chest pain by dilating blood vessels.

5. Monitor Her Symptoms: Keep a close eye on her symptoms. If she becomes unconscious or unresponsive, be prepared to perform CPR. If you are trained, administer chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute until help arrives.

6. Use an AED if Available: If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, use it as soon as possible. Follow the device's verbal instructions to deliver a shock if necessary.

7. Stay with Her: Remain with your mother until emergency personnel arrive. Provide them with any relevant medical history, including her previous heart attack, medications she is taking, and any known allergies.

Aftercare and Prevention
Once your mother receives medical attention, it’s essential to follow up with her healthcare provider to discuss her treatment plan and any necessary lifestyle changes. This may include:
- Medication Management: Ensure she adheres to prescribed medications, including blood thinners, beta-blockers, or statins.

- Lifestyle Changes: Encourage a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation if applicable.

- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular appointments with her cardiologist to monitor her heart health.

Emotional Support
Experiencing a heart attack can be traumatic, not just for the patient but also for family members. It’s important to provide emotional support and consider counseling or support groups if needed.

Conclusion
Being prepared and knowing the steps to take during a heart attack can make a significant difference in outcomes. Encourage your family to familiarize themselves with these steps and practice them if necessary. Remember, the key to managing a heart attack is quick action and effective communication with emergency services. Stay vigilant, and prioritize your mother’s heart health through regular check-ups and a supportive environment.

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