[Substantiation of patients' length stay in hospital after acute myocardial infarct]

Abstract

Aim: To study and validate the duration of optimal hospital stay for postmyocardial infarction patients and to specify indications for their discharge.

Materials and methods: The trial enrolled 187 patients with large- and small-focal acute myocardial infarction. The patients were divided into two groups by different speed of activization and hospital stay.

Results: There were no significant differences between the groups with different duration of hospital stay by working ability and invalidism. Temporary disability in patients who have undergone standard rehabilitation was longer than in patients on the shorter-program rehabilitation. Performance of exercise tests on day 14 distinguished patients with a favourable long-term prognosis who were candidates for shorter rehabilitation program.

Conclusion: The program of quicker rehabilitation (a two-times decrease in the hospital stay) can be applied to patients with uncomplicated myocardial infarction without damage to their health.