Myocardial Infarction Course Syllabus

Overview: This comprehensive course provides healthcare professionals with a structured, guideline-based approach to myocardial infarction management, from acute diagnosis to long-term rehabilitation. Aligned with current ACC/AHA standards, it covers pathophysiology, ECG interpretation, treatment protocols, and secondary prevention. With approximately 4 weeks of content and 1-2 hours per module, learners gain practical skills through real-world case studies and evidence-based strategies essential for cardiology, emergency, and critical care practice.

Module 1: Pathophysiology of Myocardial Infarction

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Coronary anatomy and blood flow dynamics
• Mechanisms of plaque rupture and thrombosis
• Ischemic cascade and myocardial cell death
• Types of acute coronary syndromes: STEMI vs NSTEMI

Module 2: Diagnosis and Acute Management

Estimated time: 2 hours

• ECG interpretation in STEMI and NSTEMI
• Role of cardiac biomarkers in MI diagnosis
• Differentiating STEMI from NSTEMI
• Initial emergency department protocols

Module 3: Treatment Modalities

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Pharmacological interventions: antiplatelets, anticoagulants, and thrombolytics
• Revascularization techniques: PCI and CABG
• Management of complications (e.g., arrhythmias, cardiogenic shock)
• Current ACC/AHA treatment guidelines

Module 4: Long-term Management

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Secondary prevention strategies
• Cardiac rehabilitation programs
• Lifestyle modifications: diet, exercise, smoking cessation

Module 5: Risk Stratification and Prevention

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Risk assessment tools post-MI
• Control of modifiable risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, lipids)
• Secondary prophylaxis with medications and monitoring

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 3 hours

• Interpret ECG tracings from real STEMI/NSTEMI cases
• Develop a comprehensive treatment plan based on clinical guidelines
• Design a personalized post-MI rehabilitation and prevention strategy

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of human anatomy and physiology
• Familiarity with medical terminology
• Healthcare background (e.g., medical student, nurse, physician)

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Accurately interpret ECGs in acute coronary syndromes
• Apply evidence-based guidelines to diagnose and manage MI
• Implement current treatment protocols for STEMI and NSTEMI
• Design individualized post-MI rehabilitation plans
• Utilize risk stratification and prevention strategies effectively