Advice post-myocardial infarction

The following advice should be given post-MI:

• a return to work 4-12 weeks after the MI, depending on the degree of heavy labour
  
  
• no driving for one month:
  • patient has the responsibility to inform the driving licence authorities
  • licence authorities are unlikely to restrict driving unless the patient drives heavy goods vehicles
    
    
• exercise should be gradually increased; a formal exercise class may be beneficial
  
  
• the patient should be told that he and his partner may return to normal sexual activity

Risk factors for the development of myocardial infarction such as smoking, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia, should be addressed.

If treated in hospital the patient should go home on day 7 to 10 post infarction.