Immediate Treatment of a Myocardial Infarction Client “MONA TASS”

Immediate Treatment of a Myocardial Infarction Client “MONA TASS”

MONA is a mnemonic that stands for: Morphine, Oxygen, Nitrates, and Aspirin. These are the four primary interventions that are performed when treating a patient with a Heart Attack (MI). However, MONA does not represent the order in which you should administer these treatments.

• M: Morphine
  Analgesic drugs such as morphine are to reduce Pain and anxiety, also has other beneficial effects as a vasodilator and decreases the workload of the heart by reducing preload and afterload.
• O: Oxygen
  To provide and improve oxygenation of ischemic myocardial tissue; enforced together with bedrest to help reduce myocardial oxygen consumption. Given via nasal cannula at 2 to 4 L/min.
• N: Nitroglycerine
  First-line of treatment for Angina and acute MI; causes vasodilation and increases blood flow to the myocardium.
• A: Aspirin
  Aspirin prevents the formation of thromboxane A2 which causes platelets to aggregate and arteries to constrict. The earlier the patient receives ASA after symptom onset, the greater the potential benefit.
• T: Thrombolytics
  To dissolve the thrombus in a coronary artery, allowing blood to flow through again, minimizing the size of the infarction and preserving ventricular function; given in some patients with MI.
• A: Anticoagulants
  Given to prevent clots from becoming larger and block coronary arteries. They are usually given with other anticlotting medicines to help prevent or reduce heart muscele damage.
• S: Stool Softeners
  Given to avoid intense straining that may trigger arrhythmias or another cardiac arrest.
• S: Sedatives
  In order to limit the size of infarction and give rest to the patient. Valium or an equivalent is usually given.