Barriers and Experiences in Implementing Early Hospital Discharge for Patients with Low-Risk ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Background

Our institution implemented a clinical pathway to facilitate early hospital discharge (EHD) in < 48 hours post–primary percutaneous coronary intervention for low-risk ST elevation myocardial infarction. This study characterizes the exclusion criteria, barriers, safety profile, and patient satisfaction for EHD.

Methods

We prospectively identified all patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction between January 2023 and March 2024. Patient characteristics, potential EHD barriers and 30-day readmission rates were recorded. A postdischarge telephone survey assessed patient satisfaction. Patients discharged at ≤ 48 hours formed the EHD cohort; those discharged later comprised the non-EHD cohort. Statistical comparisons were performed using the chi-squared and Mann-Whitney U tests, with logistic regression assessing EHD barriers.

Results

Among 433 STEMI patients, 65% (n = 282) were ineligible for EHD, primarily due to revascularization needs (29%) or infarct-related complications (47%). Of 151 eligible patients, 72% (n = 109) achieved EHD. Afternoon presentations were associated with higher EHD rates (82% vs 61%, odds ratio = 3.5, 95% confidence interval 1.57-7.83, P = 0.002). Rates of 30--day readmission were lower in the EHD cohort (0% vs 7%, P = 0.007). Patient satisfaction (96% vs 95%, P = 0.841), perceived appropriate length of stay (91% vs 82%, P = 0.15), and intention to attend cardiac rehabilitation (63% vs 67%, P = 0.73) were comparable between cohorts.

Conclusions

Revascularization considerations and infarct-related complications were the most common reason for exclusion. Morning or overnight admissions were potential barriers to EHD, suggesting a role for optimized discharge planning. No adverse impacts on safety or patient satisfaction occurred.