Abstract

Aim. This study aimed to review indications, benefits, limitations and procedure of continuous ST segment monitoring in critical care unites.

Background. Although the 12-lead electrocardiography is a standard and reliable tool to detecti ischemia in Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) patients, but it provides only a static snapshot. The American Heart Association (AHA) and American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACCN) practice standards for ECG monitoring recommend continuous ischemia monitoring for all patients at risk of myocardial ischemia.

Method. This was a review study. International databases such as Proquest, CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus and one national database (SID) were searched out using the keywords; ST-segment Monitoring, Cardiac Monitoring and Acute Coronary Syndrome to find out materials published between years 2000 and 2015. About 189 citations were evaluated, out of which 15 citations were recruited in the final review.

Findings. Although continuous monitoring of ST segment has been introduced many years, but this technology is not widely used.Continuous monitoring of ST segment provides a frequent and dynamic assessment of changes associated with ischemia.Continuous ST segment monitoring as an effective method can be used to provide continuous and dynamic snapshot of ischemia, to evaluate response to reperfusion and anticoagulant therapy and also, can be used for prognostic or research purposes.  

Conclusion. Despite some limitations, the use of continuous ST segment monitoring is recommended for patients with ACS, besides routine assessment.