Sudden death

The threat of sudden death due to a myocardial infarct inevitably places a severe strain on the patient, who may realize the severity of his condition, on the family who are justifiably concerned about the life threatening situation the patient is in, and on the coronary care nurse who is involved in his care. Each one reacts to this stress in his own way. If the nurse can begin to understand her own reactions and the reactions of the family and patient, she will be better equipped to help them cope with this crisis situation.