Volume 13, Issue 4: Sex differences in ACS presentation and care outcomes – the ways of a woman’s heart

Sex differences in ACS presentation and care outcomes – the ways of a woman’s heart

You are writing a reflective practice piece and conduct a follow-up interview with Kate, a 50-year-old female patient. Her history was complex and caused you to consider differences in presentation for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) depending on biological sex.

CPD benefit

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is the term used to describe a range of conditions that are broadly characterised by a sudden loss of blood flow (ischaemia) to the heart. Research worldwide indicates a gap in ACS treatment and outcome, whereby women are less likely to receive best-practice care and more likely to suffer a poorer outcome. This article outlines sex differences in anatomy and physiology that are considered to contribute towards differences in presentation and recovery. It also discusses pathophysiology, signs and symptoms and patient assessment, highlighting the ongoing debate about possible bias when it comes to the treatment women receive. This will encourage you to reflect on the need for a greater understanding of these differences between the sexes, and how this should impact the care we give and the care women receive.