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Papers And Originals

Results of Early Mobilization and Discharge after Myocardial Infarction

Br Med J 1973; 1 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.1.5844.10 (Published 06 January 1973) Cite this as: Br Med J 1973;1:10
  1. Helen H. Tucker,
  2. P. H. M. Carson,
  3. N. M. Bass,
  4. G. P. Sharratt,
  5. J. P. P. Stock

    Abstract

    A total of 342 patients with acute myocardial infarction who were admitted to a coronary care unit are reviewed to assess the results of early mobilization and discharge. The mean duration of admission was 8·4 days and 89% of the survivors were discharged from hospital by the tenth day. The inpatient mortality was 15·5%. An additional 6·7% died during the six weeks' follow-up period, giving a total mortality of 22·2%. Altogether, 7·6% of patients were readmitted. Venous thromboembolic phenomena occurred in 3·5% during the inpatient period. Of patients who were eligible 62% were back at work five months after their myocardial infarction. We think the results justify a short hospital admission period for acute myocardial infarction.