Key Principles and Definitions

Key Principles

The Prehospital 12-lead ECG is a key component to the early diagnosis and ongoing definitive treatment of patients with myocardial infarction (MI). In all cases, the health and well being of the patient is the overriding consideration in determining patient destination. Factors to be considered include: transport time and request by the patient, family, guardian or physician.

Definitions

Elevation Myocardian Infarction (STEMI): An acute MI that generates ST-segment elevation on the prehospital 12-lead ECG.

STEMI Receiving Center (SRC): A hospital designated by Contra Costa County EMS with cardiac capabilities, (cardiac catheterization, laboratory and/or cardiovascular surgery), designed to provide rapid intervention for STEMI patients.