Physical Examination is performed, including recordings of the pulse rate, blood pressure, respiration rate and temperature. EKG or electrocardiogram is a useful test in indicating the presence of a heart attack. An intravenous line is started. Oxygen is started. A nitroglycerine is placed under the tongue if the blood pressure is not too low.
Pain medication is delivered, usually via an i.v. line.
Aspirin is given by mouth. This helps confirm the early indication of a heart attack. If not contraindicated one or the other form of treatment is used in the majority of patients. A portable chest x-ray is commonly obtained, particularly if the patient is having shortness of breath. In some cases, an echocardiogram may be obtained in the emergency room to asses the size of a heart attack.