STEM Introduction/Etiology and Pathophysiology Myocardial infarction is a serious and potentially life-threatening emergency. Rapid evaluation and diagnosis are critical to properly treating a patient. It is essential that the nurse and healthcare team understand the diagnostic procedures, laboratory tests and treatments that can provide life-saving treatment to a patient presenting with chest pain. Myocardial infarctions can occur in different parts of the heart and can be classified differently depending on the presenting symptoms. The most serious type of myocardial infarction is classified as ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction or STEMI. A STEMI is a type of heart attack that results in an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (CDC, 2010). A STEMI is the traditional manifestation and has historically been used to diagnose myocardial infarction (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013, p. 829). It is now known that not all patients who have suffered a myocardial infarction will present in this way (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013, p. 829). According to Ignatavicius and Workman (2013), patients presenting with STEMI typically present with ST-segment elevation in two contiguous leads on a 12-lead ECG. A STEMI indicates myocardial infarction or necrosis and requires immediate treatment (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013, p. 829). According to the American Heart Association (AHA) (2010), STEMI comprises 25% to 40% of the 683,000 US patients diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome each year. A myocardial infarction occurs when myocardial tissue is suddenly and severely deprived of oxygen (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013, p.829). Because of this rapid decrease in blood flow, ischemia develops which can then lead to myocardial injury and necrosis… halfway through the article… surgical treatment may be required, which may require another PTCA or CABG. If surgery is required, the nurse should monitor the patient for any postoperative complications. Conclusion In conclusion, coronary health is of utmost importance. The prevalence of coronary heart disease and acute coronary syndromes is alarming. Education and changing modifiable risk factors are essential to promoting heart health and reducing the risk of a myocardial infarction. An acute myocardial event such as a STEMI can be seriously life-threatening. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are critical to provide the best chance of reperfusion to the myocardial muscle to restore oxygen and blood flow and reduce injury and complications. It is essential that the nurse is educated about the signs, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of a STEMI to help achieve the best outcome for the patient.