Experience in a coronary care unit. A preliminary report.

: A coronary care unit for the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction has been organized at the R. K. Kahn Hospital. This unit provides intensive nursing care and continuous oscilloscope monitoring of cardiac rhythm and has facilities for dealing with cardiac emergencies. During the first year 184 patients with definite acute myocardial infarction were treated. There were 42 deaths (22.8%). The results of treatment and the incidence and influence of pre-existent coronary artery disease, diabetes and hypertension are discussed. Mention is made of further proposed developments.