Common Misconceptions ■ Cardiogenic shock only occurs in patients with left ventricular systolic function. ■ An intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) reduces mortality in cardiogenic shock. ■ Cardiac function is a key predictor of survival of patients with cardiogenic shock. Clinical…
Common Misconceptions ■ The mechanical complications of acute myocardial infarction are more common in large infarctions. ■ The mechanical complications of acute myocardial infarction can be treated medically. ■ Patients with ventricular septal rupture should be stabilized for several weeks…
Common Misconceptions ■ Right-sided electrocardiogram (ECG) in inferior myocardial infarction (MI) has no value. ■ Cardiogenic shock is not possible with preserved left ventricular (LV) function. ■ Intravenous nitroglycerin or morphine should be given to all patients with acute MI…
Common Misconceptions ■ β-blockers are contraindicated in patients with acute myocardial infarction with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. ■ Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) should not be given concomitantly with clopidogrel. ■ Prasugrel improved outcomes compared with clopidogrel, with no increase in…
Common Misconceptions ■ All patients suffering an acute myocardial infarction will complain of chest pain. ■ In evaluating a patient with a suspected acute coronary syndrome, it is important to note the severity of chest pain on a scale of…
Common Misconceptions ■ The physical examination in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) no longer contributes to achieving optimal patient outcomes in the era of ubiquitous laboratory testing and imaging. ■ There is a single normal value for blood pressure.…