Factors influencing treatment delay for patients with acute myocardial infarction

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Psychology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Delayed treatment for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a significant public health concern.
• Cognitive, social, and emotional factors contribute to patient decision-making during cardiac events.
• Identifying these influences can improve emergency response times and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the cognitive, social, and emotional factors influencing treatment delay in patients experiencing an acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
• To differentiate predictors of prolonged versus immediate emergency department arrival after symptom onset.

Main Methods:

• A multiple regression analysis was employed to examine predictors of treatment delay.
• Data were collected on patient-reported symptoms, location, perceived control, and actions taken.

Main Results:

• Predictors of longer treatment delay included being at home, perceiving greater symptom control, and being in a public place.
• Predictors of shorter treatment delay included recognizing symptoms as heart-related, calling emergency services (911), experiencing high pain, and communicating symptoms to others.

Conclusions:

• Patient location, perceived control, symptom recognition, and social communication significantly impact treatment-seeking behavior during AMI.
• Nurses can utilize these findings to anticipate and mitigate patient decision delays, potentially improving care during acute cardiac events.