Statin Administration for ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction During Rotor Wing Transport

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of statin administration by a critical care transport medicine (CCTM) team during rotor wing transport for ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients to a percutaneous intervention–capable center. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study at a single CCTM program after an intervention focused on statin administration for ST-elevation myocardial infarction that included a formulary change and a single brief educational presentation to flight physicians. A comparison group of flight nurse practitioners underwent training after the study period and were used as a control. Two authors completed an independent chart review to collect data. Descriptive statistics and chi-square or Mann-Whitney U testing were used to compare groups. ResultsStatin administration (or documentation of statin administration before CCTM crew arrival or contraindication to statin administration) occurred during 15 of 19 (79%) transports staffed by trained providers and 3 of 18 (17%) transports staffed by untrained providers (P < .001 by chi-square test). Scene times were not significantly different between transports by trained and untrained providers. ConclusionIn summary, we demonstrate the feasibility and safety of a protocol for statin administration in the CCTM setting.