Do you know what qualifies as ST elevation to determine if there's a STEMI?

Question

For those practicing ECG interpretation in preparation for the USMLE (steps 2 and 3), NCLEX, PANCE, board exams, it's common to know what ST elevation is, without always being sure of the specific requirements for saying that it's there. Post any questions here, or I'll post a quick video responding to the question..

Answer 1

I recommend studying the difference between myocardial ischemia vs infarctions. Review the difference in EKG changes for ischemia vs infarction. Know the leads that identify an anterior Myocardial Infarction (MI), an inferior MI and a lateral MI. All that will aid you when answering this type of NCLEX questions.

Care management of myocardial ischemia, NSTEMI and a STEMI are also important concepts to be able to talk about when discussing these topics. There are many differences between each of these conditions. Remember "MONA" greets all clients with any pain above the belt line. Cardiac pain is always ruled out with any client presenting with pain above the belt line. Remember women, elderly, diabetics and men all present differently. Happy Studying! 12 Lead EKG is the gold standard test as is Troponin.

Answer 2

ST elevation of 1mm in 2 contiguous leads meets indication for thrombolytic therapy for MI, id timely access to Cath lab is not availible

Answer 3