Video Transcript
Angina is a pain caused by lack of blood and oxygen to the heart. Symptoms of angina can include pain in the center of the chest pressure or tightness in the chest, a feeling of pain radiating down from the neck jaw to the left arm or both arms. If a person suffers from angina they need to rest and take their medication. The medication for angina is known as an Jeanine and if they have this on them they are strongly recommended to take it.

Correct Treatment of an Angina Attack in the Workplace or Home: A First Aid Trainer’s Guide

Angina, characterized by chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart, is often a warning sign of underlying coronary artery disease. While stable angina typically occurs predictably during physical exertion or stress, unstable angina can strike unexpectedly and may signal an impending heart attack. Prompt, calm intervention can alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Here’s how to respond effectively to an angina attack at home or work.

1. Recognize the Symptoms

• Chest discomfort: Pressure, squeezing, burning, or tightness in the chest.
• Radiating pain: May spread to the arms (often the left), neck, jaw, shoulder blades, or back.
• Other signs: Shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, sweating, or fatigue.

Key distinction:

• Stable angina: Lasts 5–15 minutes, relieved by rest or medication.
• Unstable angina: Occurs at rest, lasts longer, or worsens suddenly—treat as a medical emergency.

2. Immediate First Aid Steps

A. Stop Activity and Rest

• Have the person sit down in a comfortable position (slightly reclined or leaning forward).
• Reduce physical and emotional stress to lower the heart’s oxygen demand.

B. Administer Prescribed Medication

• Nitroglycerin: If the person has a prescribed nitro spray or tablet, assist them in taking 1 dose under the tongue. Repeat every 5 minutes if pain persists (up to 3 doses total).
• Aspirin: If advised by their doctor or EMS, give 162–325 mg of aspirin to chew (unless allergic).

C. Monitor Vital Signs

• Check breathing, pulse, and consciousness. If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 15 minutes, suspect unstable angina or heart attack.

D. Loosen Tight Clothing

• Remove restrictive items like ties, belts, or tight collars to ease breathing.

3. When to Call Emergency Services

Dial 000 or local emergency services immediately if:

• Pain is severe, lasts longer than 15 minutes, or returns after initial relief.
• The person has no history of angina or lacks prescribed medication.
• Symptoms resemble a heart attack (e.g., sweating, vomiting, radiating pain).

4. Post-Episode Care

• Encourage medical follow-up: Even if symptoms resolve, the person should consult a healthcare provider to adjust treatment plans.
• Document the incident: Note the time, symptoms, and actions taken for future reference.

5. Prevention Strategies

• Manage risk factors: Control hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol. Promote smoking cessation and a heart-healthy diet.
• Workplace accommodations: Allow flexible breaks for employees with angina to avoid overexertion.
• Emergency preparedness:
  • Keep nitroglycerin accessible (with the person’s consent).
  • Train coworkers/family to recognize symptoms and use an AED if cardiac arrest occurs.

Why Timely Action Matters

Angina indicates compromised blood flow to the heart. Delayed treatment risks progression to a heart attack or arrhythmias. Nitroglycerin works rapidly to dilate blood vessels, restoring oxygen supply to the heart muscle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring symptoms: Never dismiss chest pain as “indigestion” without evaluation.
• Overexertion: Resuming activity too soon can trigger another attack.
• Sharing medication: Only use nitroglycerin prescribed to the individual.

Final Thoughts

Angina attacks require a balance of urgency and reassurance. Equip workplaces and homes with accessible medication, AEDs, and trained responders. Encourage those with angina to share their action plans with colleagues or family, detailing triggers, medication schedules, and emergency contacts.

By fostering awareness and preparedness, you empower bystanders to act decisively, turning a potential crisis into a manageable event. Remember: When in doubt, treat chest pain as a medical emergency.

Note: Aligns with American Heart Association (AHA) and Red Cross guidelines. Regular CPR/AED training ensures readiness to respond if angina escalates to cardiac arrest.