| The purpose of this study was to explore the use of aspirin in cases of acute coronary syndrome-related chest pain. Of specific interest was the frequency with which aspirin was self-administered by an affected individual or by health care professionals within the recommended 30 minutes from onset of symptoms. A retrospective chart review was performed on 318 charts from the years 2002--2004. Study findings indicate that aspirin therapy continues to remain underutilized in situations of cardiovascular-related chest pain, specifically in the emergency department setting. Overall, findings reveal individuals are less likely to receive aspirin in the field setting when compared to self and emergency department administration. Individuals ages 18--29 were least likely to receive aspirin in the emergency department setting. These findings should be used to redesign current standing protocols in the emergency department in order to maintain adherence with current recommended guidelines. |
