Knowledge of a patient-dependant phase of acute myocardial infarction in Polish adults: the role of physician's advice

Background: Effective management of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is limited by patient delay in calling an ambulance. We aimed to assess knowledge related to a patient-dependant phase of AMI and its determinants in adults. Methods: Questionnaire survey was conducted among a random sample of 942 men (48%) and women (52%) aged 63.50 +/- 6.50 selected from population registers in Cracow (Poland). Questions from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were used to assess knowledge of AMI symptoms. The respondents were further asked about the first thing they would do in response to AMI symptoms, the emergency phone number and whether a doctor advised them about AMI. Results: All suggested AMI symptoms were recognized by 51 (5.4%) respondents. More persons would call an ambulance in response to AMI symptoms in another person than if they appear in themselves (87.4% vs. 74.4%, P = 0.02). Only 644 (68%) participants knew the emergency phone number and 104 (11%) were advised about AMI by their doctors. Such advice was associated with higher rates of knowledge of AMI symptoms and the emergency phone number but not with a declaration of the appropriate reaction to AMI symptoms. Participants after AMI did not represent better knowledge of a patient-dependant phase of AMI but paradoxically less frequently than other persons declared calling an ambulance in response to AMI symptoms. Conclusion: Improvement in knowledge and attitudes related to a patient-dependant phase of AMI is needed in adults even if they experienced AMI before. A routine advice from a doctor may contribute significantly to this improvement.