Critique of the medical research article

Title Page

Critique of the medical research article

Title of Article : Factors associated with prolonged pre-hospital delay of African Americans with acute myocardial infarction

Author (s ) of the Article : Banks AD , Dracup K

Research Journal : American Journal of Critical Care , 2006 Mar 15 (2 :149-57

Substantive and conceptual aspects

Introduction (2

1 . What is the purpose of the study

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the various factors for the prolonged pre-hospital delay in African-American with Acute myocardial infarction . Another purpose of the study is to

demonstrate the manner in which perceived racism (experience of racial discrimination ) affects the pre-hospital delay

2 . Is the purpose of the study clearly presented

The study has demonstrated to a certain extent that several related factors such as ethnic background , medical insurance , presence of a witness (relative or a family member during the attack , marital status general health status , presence of any systemic disease and perceived racism , do play a very important role in prolonging the time period between the onset of the symptoms and hospitalization . However , further studies are required to provide more detailed information about these factors

Problem Statement (5

1 . What problem was the study conducted to resolve

The study was conducted to determine the factors associated with prolonged pre-hospital delay in African-Americans with acute myocardial infarction than Whites . It was found that death due to cardiovascular disease claims were significantly higher in African-Americans than any other group . Besides , the study was also conducted to demonstrate the extent to which perceived racism affects the pre-hospital delay in African-Americans with acute myocardial infarction

2 . How is the problem important for nursing practice

Acute myocardial infarction is one of the main causes of death in both men and women , living in developed countries . Fatalities due to cardiovascular disease are significantly higher in African-Americans than any other racial group . The outcome following acute myocardial infarction varies depending on the rapidity at which with reperfusion therapy is provided . In this treatment intervention , the blood supply to the heart is restored back to normal . Agents that chemically dissolve thrombi (clots formed within the blood vessels ) or expand blood vessels (vasodilators ) are administered . Besides , surgical procedures such as angioplasty (reconstruction of the blocked artery catheterization (insertion of an inflatable balloon-tipped tubular device ) or coronary artery bypass (grafting a section of a vein , may also be performed to restore the blood supply to the cardiac tissues Reperfusion therapy seems to be most valuable when provided within one hour following the development of symptoms and signs of myocardial infarction . Delay in providing treatment may play an important role in increasing the morbidity and mortality rates of acute myocardial infarction . As African-Americans take longer time in seeking treatment for the symptoms and signs of acute myocardial infarction than Whites the outcome will definitely be less favorable in African-Americans Hence , measures to lower delay times can be instituted in African-Americans with acute myocardial infarction

3 . Is the problem statement clearly stated ? Describe

The delay in seeking treatment for the...