What is a common initial treatment for a patient with a suspected heart attack?

Administering aspirin is a common initial treatment for a patient with a suspected heart attack because it helps to thin the blood and inhibit platelet aggregation. This action can reduce the clot size in a coronary artery, improving blood flow to the heart and decreasing the overall workload on the heart muscle. Aspirin is typically one of the first medications given to patients experiencing chest pain likely caused by a myocardial infarction, as it is effective, easy to administer, and can be lifesaving during the critical early stages of a heart attack.

Providing oxygen exclusively is not indicated as the primary or initial treatment unless the patient is hypoxic or shows signs of respiratory distress. Instead, oxygen therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments, including the administration of aspirin. Applying cold compresses is not a recognized treatment for a heart attack. It addresses superficial discomfort rather than the underlying cardiac condition. Lastly, immediate transport without assessment does not align with best practices, as proper assessment is crucial to determine the extent of the patient’s condition and ensure appropriate care during transport.