Effect of a coronary care unit on mortality from acute myocardial infarction

The mortality from acute myocardial infarction was compared for 2 years before the introduction of a coronary care unit (C.C.U.), and three and a half years after. The difference was not significant statistically (18% before, and 15% after). There was no reduction in the incidence of cardiac arrest in the C.C.U. period, but resuscitation from cardiac arrest was more successful. The results are considered in the light of previous studies, and the current status of coronary care in district general hospitals is discussed.