High-risk unstable angina: keeping pace with current research findings

Unstable angina pectoris is one of the leading medical diagnoses of patients admitted to hospitals in the United States and may advance to acute myocardial infarction, morbidity, and death in many instances. Research into the pathophysiology of unstable angina has led to new management regimes, including medications, interventions, and invasive treatments. In this article, the author describes unstable angina and its pathogenesis, then focuses on pharmacologic and invasive management. Primary nursing diagnoses are described, and special considerations are discussed to help critical care and/or advanced practice nurse assess patient needs, monitor therapies, optimize care, and mediate patient stress.