Conclusions
An inadequate evidence base remains for the role of ACS
nurses in EDs, especially in regard to often difficult diagnostic
and treatment decision-making for patients with
NSTACS. However, just as nurse-led or nurse-initiated
thrombolysis improved treatment for STEMI, there is the
potential for these healthcare professionals to improve evidence-based
treatment for patients with NSTACS, especially
those at higher risk. Nurses’ roles in ACS should
include objective global risk assessment to guide early
treatment decisions and incorporate the varied and rich
activities identified in studies presented in the review.