Asymptomatic coronary artery disease.
Asymptomatic coronary artery disease (ACAD) is a significant diagnosis that is documented in the current cardiology literature. This syndrome is characterized by myocardial ischemia without the typical anginal pain. Diagnosis must be specific, with the use of objective evidence of ischemic changes provided by ambulatory monitoring or exercise stress testing. It is the purpose of this article to review the current literature for the prognosis, the population at risk, and the recommended therapies for these patients. ACAD appears to occur in three different types of individuals. A type 1 person is totally asymptomatic, has no history of angina, myocardial infarction, or congestive heart failure, and demonstrates myocardial ischemia. The type 2 patient with ACAD is in the postmyocardial infarction period and demonstrates asymptomatic myocardial ischemia. The type 3 patient with ACAD is one who experiences myocardial ischemia both with and without pain. Nursing needs to provide support and guidance for the ACAD patient and family. Common nursing diagnoses have been outlined to assist in planning the care of this patient population.