High Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin Assays - How to Implement them Successfully

High sensitivity troponin (hsTn) assays provide an unprecedented opportunity to improve the detection and treatment of cardiac injury from coronary and non-coronary causes. They may also play a role in guiding the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, to derive maximal benefit from their use, careful planning for the implementation of these new assays is required. In this manuscript, we will discuss actions that can be taken during hsTn pre-implementation, implementation and post-implementation phases. Key concepts for consideration in the pre-implementation phase include: the establishment of a multi-disciplinary implementation team; development of quality control procedures; education of clinical staff; modification of existing clinical workflow and provision of computerized decision support. Strategies for ensuring successful implementation and post-implementation phases will also be discussed.