The Octagenarian Patient Whose Code Stemi Is Cancelled: Why and What Happens to Them

Abstract

Octogenarians present a challenge to first responders regardless of the clinical scenario. One of the more challenging presentations is that associated with an ECG concerning for a STEMI often times without classic STEMI symptoms. Since "Time is Muscle" and first contact to balloon inflation is a quality indicator, any intervention to shorten that time is seen to be helpful. However, false activation wastes manpower and increases costs. This report describes the characteristics of octogenarias that had their code STEMI cancelled and describes the presenting symptom/sign and their outcome.METHODS: An observational cross-sectional study at a community based hospital that included all patients >80 years of age whose Code STEMI was cancelled from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019. Using excel we did a descriptive analysis of characteristics, laboratory and outcomes.