Through our STEMI network, the emergency department at South Hospital receives electrocardiogram results transmitted wirelessly by regional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers when they suspect that a patient is having a STEMI (ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction) in the field. If a total blockage is suspected, the emergency provider will then activate the cardiac catheterization lab (cath lab) team. When EMS arrives at South Hospital, hospital staff will transport the patient directly to the cath lab, allowing physicians to clear the blockage sooner. It ensures the area’s quickest access to care that can stop a heart attack in progress.
STEMI is an acronym meaning “ST segment elevation myocardial infarction,” which is a type of severe heart attack. While all heart attacks are serious, those considered a STEMI—which involves a significant artery blockage—require the quickest treatment. Because of the significant blockage, STEMI heart attacks cause rapid loss of heart muscle that cannot be regenerated. In these situations, time saved is heart muscle saved.
UofL Health – South Hospital works with regional emergency medical systems (EMS) to provide the fastest access to lifesaving care through our STEMI network. Through the network, our emergency department receives EKG results transmitted wirelessly by EMS providers when they suspect that a patient is having a STEMI in the field. Once the emergency department receives the patient’s EKG and a significant blockage is suspected, the emergency physician will activate the cardiac catheterization lab (cath lab) team. When EMS arrives at South Hospital, hospital staff transport the patient directly to the cath lab, allowing physicians to clear the blockage sooner. For patients with a heart attack or a complete blockage of the coronary artery, this ensures the fastest access to lifesaving care.
We will facilitate the transfer of any patient to an inpatient hospital facility if further inpatient treatment is required. We also have seamless collaboration with on-call specialty services through our UofL Health/UofL Physicians network of physician specialists.
