Disparities Between Men and Women in the Time of Initial EKG Acquisition

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death around the world. Initial treatment is often time dependent. An EKG is the single most important initial clinical test to diagnose acute myocardial infarctions. Recognizing acute coronary symptoms in the initial presentation to an emergency department is critical in order to obtain the initial EKG. Of concern is the likelihood of delay in the initial EKG acquisition for females. The purpose of the research study was to distinguish if there is a disparity between genders to the best practice of door to EKG in 10 minutes from the arrival time in the Emergency department. A retrospective chart review was conducted with a total of 60 charts consisting of 30 females and 30 males who experienced an AMI. The time of initial arrival to the ED and initial EKG acquisition were compared. Results demonstrated that the initial EKG acquisition was shorter for males, average of 15 minutes as compared to females, average of 18 minutes. The data also demonstrated that only 32% (n=19) of patients had an initial EKG in 10 minutes or less and 68% (n=41) in greater than 10 minutes. Average age of females was 72 compared to males at 62. Thirty seven percent (n=22) of the patients presented with a chief complaint other than chest pain. Further research is indicated to determine reasons for delay in initial EKG acquisition between genders.