A Cross-sectional Study on Factors Contributing to Prehospital Delay among ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients

Context: The concept of minimizing total ischemic time in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients is significantly influenced by prolonged prehospital time. Aims: This study is aimed to identify the factors contributing to prehospital delay in STEMI patients. Settings and Design: Department of Cardiology at a teaching and tertiary care hospital. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 STEMI patients between August 2023 and March 2024. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and patient case records. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: Only 19.3% of patients reached the study center within 2 h of symptom onset. Approximately 39% of patients recognized their symptoms as a heart attack, but this awareness did not have a significant correlation with prehospital delay ( P = 0.074). Factors such as the time of symptom onset, the distance to the hospital, and direct hospital admission were significantly associated with prehospital delay ( P < 0.05). Conclusions: Delay at first medical contact, nighttime symptom onset, and the distance to the hospital were the main reasons for prehospital delay among our participants. Effective referral policies and awareness programs focused on symptom identification, immediate care seeking, and the utilization of ambulances is essential to reduce prehospital delay in STEMI patients.