What should be monitored in patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome?

• A. ECG rhythm analysis only
• B. BP only
• C. Temperature only
• D. STEMI identification and ED notification

Answer: (D)

The key practice is rapid STEMI recognition and activation of the treatment pathway. In suspected acute coronary syndrome, the highest priority is to detect ST-elevation on the ECG so you can activate the emergency department for urgent reperfusion therapy. This approach directly impacts outcomes by getting the patient to the cath lab or thrombolysis as quickly as possible. Continuous ECG monitoring is essential for identifying ischemic changes and arrhythmias, but simply focusing on one parameter (like temperature or BP alone) misses the urgent step needed to treat STEMI. So, identifying STEMI on ECG and notifying the ED promptly is the most protective action in this scenario.