Acute ischemic syndromes: Early response

Optimal early care for patients with acute ischemic syndromes (AIS) requires an integrated emergency medical care system. This system includes patient education, early access to emergency medical services, prompt dispatch, accurate assessment by medics and transport to an emergency department capable of treating patients with AIS. Medics must be well equipped and trained in the stabilization of AIS and management of complications. Initial management in the emergency department includes prompt risk assessment for AIS with the use of clinical history and physical examination, electrocardiogram, and biomarkers. Those patients with high risk are evaluated for immediate reperfusion treatment. The treatment of patients with intermediate or low risk is individualized based on presentation.