What action should be initiated when STEMI criteria are present?

• A. Initiate STEMI Alert per STEMI Alert Protocol
• B. Activate the general emergency response system and wait
• C. Obtain baseline ECG only
• D. Administer morphine

Answer: (A)

When STEMI criteria are present, the immediate step is to activate the STEMI Alert per the protocol. This fast-tracks the patient into reperfusion therapy by mobilizing the cath lab, preparing the emergency department, and coordinating rapid transport to a PCI-capable facility. The goal is to minimize time from onset to reperfusion (time is muscle), which reduces infarct size and improves survival. Delays caused by waiting for general emergency response, or by only obtaining a baseline ECG or giving morphine before activating reperfusion, do not address the urgent need for rapid reperfusion and can worsen outcomes.