Thrombolytic therapy: nursing strategies for successful patient outcomes

Since the evolution of the thrombolytic era, thrombolytic agents have become the first-line therapy recommended for patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This recommendation has important implications for nursing practice. Nurses see AMI patients in a variety of hospital settings and are often the first contact patients have when entering the medical system. Nurses can have an important effect on patient outcomes and are essential in the successful implementation of thrombolytic therapy. This article examines the evolution of the thrombolytic era, types of thrombolytic agents, and the nurse's role in assessment, implementation and evaluation of the therapy. Strategies for recognizing and screening potential candidates, decreasing in-hospital delays, and minimizing complications due to thrombolytic therapy are discussed.