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Myocardial Infarction

4.8 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 462 ratings
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Prof. Thomas F. Lüscher

Cardiovascular diseases are – according to the (World Health Organization (WHO) – the number one cause of death globally. Myocardial infarction (heart attack) is the most prominent under the Cardiovascular diseases. In Switzerland alone, the risk to develop a coronary heart disease during life time is around 25% for men and 18% for women.

Most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing behavioral risk factors, the understanding of these risk factors, their mechanisms and impact on the cardiovascular system.

Read more

Cardiovascular diseases are – according to the (World Health Organization (WHO) – the number one cause of death globally. Myocardial infarction (heart attack) is the most prominent under the Cardiovascular diseases. In Switzerland alone, the risk to develop a coronary heart disease during life time is around 25% for men and 18% for women.

Most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing behavioral risk factors, the understanding of these risk factors, their mechanisms and impact on the cardiovascular system.

In this context our course aims to approach the complex field of myocardial infarction in two respects: medical education and awareness of a broader audience.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Our Heart and Cardiovascular System
This first module of this course focuses on the heart and the cardiovascular system. The first lecture covers the anatomy and function of the heart, explaining the basic glossary which you will encounter during this course. The second lecture displays the various types of blood vessels and arteries. This is helpful to understand the final lecture of this module: the sympathetic nervous system. This lecture will discuss the external influences that have a direct impact on our nervous system, including the physiological effects and clinical consequences.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
This course is tailored towards medical students and healthcare professionals who seek to deepen their understanding of cardiovascular diseases
Taught by Prof. Thomas F. Lüscher, a renowned cardiologist
Provides a comprehensive overview of cardiovascular diseases, from risk factors to prevention and management
Emphasizes the importance of behavioral risk factors and their impact on cardiovascular health
Covers a wide range of topics, including acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, and cardiac rehabilitation
Some modules may require learners to have prior medical or scientific knowledge

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive overview of myocardial infarction

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive overview of myocardial infarction, covering topics from anatomy and risk factors to acute management and rehabilitation. Many students found the explanations clear and easy to understand, making complex medical concepts accessible even without significant prior knowledge. The lectures were often described as engaging and the course structure logical. While widely appreciated for its breadth and clarity, some reviewers felt certain modules could benefit from greater depth for advanced learners or professionals seeking clinical detail. Overall, it appears to be a well-regarded introduction suitable for both general interest and foundational medical education.
Appeals to both general and medical learners
"Perfect for anyone wanting to understand heart attacks better, even without a medical background."
"Excellent foundational course for medical students or nurses."
"Bridged the gap between my interest as a layperson and basic medical understanding."
Complex concepts are explained simply
"Complex medical terms were made surprisingly easy to understand."
"The instructors explained difficult concepts very clearly."
"Found the lectures really helped demystify some of the physiology."
Covers key aspects of myocardial infarction
"Provides a broad overview of the topic from start to finish."
"I felt the course covered all the essential areas related to heart attacks."
"From risk factors to rehabilitation, the course touches upon all the critical stages."
May lack clinical detail for advanced learners
"As a medical student, I found it a good review, but lacking depth for clinical practice."
"Could use more detailed information on specific treatment protocols."
"Good introduction, but don't expect specialist-level detail."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Myocardial Infarction with these activities:
Volunteer as a Peer Tutor
Teaching others will solidify your understanding of the course concepts and improve your communication skills.
Show steps
  • Contact your instructor or department to inquire about tutoring opportunities.
  • Prepare lesson plans and materials.
  • Meet with students regularly to provide support and guidance.
Review Anatomy and Physiology
Reviewing anatomy and physiology will provide a solid foundation for understanding the cardiovascular system and its diseases.
Browse courses on Anatomy
Show steps
  • Refer to your old notes or textbooks.
  • Watch online videos or tutorials.
  • Attend a refresher course or workshop.
Read 'Braunwald's Heart Disease' by Zipes and Libby
This comprehensive textbook provides an in-depth overview of cardiovascular diseases, their diagnosis, and management.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read through the assigned chapters.
  • Take notes and highlight important concepts.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow Tutorials on Echocardiography
Echocardiography is an essential skill in diagnosing heart failure. Following tutorials will enhance your understanding and proficiency in this technique.
Show steps
  • Find reputable online tutorials or courses.
  • Set aside dedicated time for practice.
  • Review the basics of echocardiography.
  • Practice image acquisition and interpretation.
Solve Practice Problems on Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Practicing problem-solving will enhance your understanding of the risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases and their prevention.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
  • Join a study group or online forum to discuss solutions.
  • Attend a problem-solving workshop or session.
Attend a Workshop on Cardiac Rehabilitation
Attending a workshop will provide hands-on experience and insights into the latest techniques and approaches in cardiac rehabilitation.
Browse courses on Cardiac Rehabilitation
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant workshops.
  • Register and attend the workshop.
  • Participate actively and network with experts.
Create a Presentation on Acute Coronary Syndrome
Creating a presentation will reinforce your understanding of the diagnosis and management of acute coronary syndrome.
Show steps
  • Gather information from the course materials and other sources.
  • Organize your content using an outline.
  • Design your presentation slides.
  • Practice your presentation and get feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Myocardial Infarction will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cardiologist
Cardiologists help patients prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat cardiovascular diseases including heart attack, heart failure, and hypertension. They may specialize in one or more subfields of medicine, including non-invasive cardiology, interventional cardiology, or electrophysiology. This course may be useful for those considering a career in cardiology because it provides a strong foundation in the anatomy and function of the heart and cardiovascular system, as well as the risk factors and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cardiologist
Physicist
Physicists may conduct research on the fundamental principles of the universe or apply their knowledge to practical problems in fields such as medicine, engineering, or business. They may specialize in one or more subfields of physics, including nuclear physics, particle physics, or astrophysics. This course may be useful for those considering a career in physics because it provides a foundation in the basic principles of physiology and the cardiovascular system. Some physicists may also work in the field of medical physics, which involves the application of physics to medicine. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physicist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes and distribution of disease and other health problems in populations. They may specialize in one or more subfields of epidemiology, including environmental epidemiology, genetic epidemiology, or social epidemiology. This course may be useful for those considering a career in epidemiology because it provides a foundation in the risk factors and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Epidemiologists may also work in the field of cardiovascular epidemiology, which focuses on the study of cardiovascular diseases in populations. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, interpret, and present data. They may specialize in one or more subfields of statistics, including biostatistics, econometrics, or data science. This course may be useful for those considering a career in statistics because it provides a foundation in the statistical methods used to analyze data in cardiovascular research. Statisticians may also work in the field of biostatistics, which involves the application of statistics to medicine. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians apply statistical methods to the study of biological data. They may work in a variety of settings, including academia, industry, and government. This course may be useful for those considering a career in biostatistics because it provides a strong foundation in the statistical methods used to analyze data in cardiovascular research. Biostatisticians may also work in the field of cardiovascular epidemiology, which focuses on the study of cardiovascular diseases in populations. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biostatistician
Dietitian or Nutritionist
Dietitians and nutritionists provide nutrition counseling and education to individuals and groups. They may specialize in one or more subfields of nutrition, including clinical nutrition, community nutrition, or foodservice management. This course may be useful for those considering a career in dietetics or nutrition because it provides a foundation in the risk factors and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Dietitians and nutritionists may also work in the field of cardiovascular nutrition, which focuses on the nutritional needs of people with cardiovascular diseases. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dietitian or Nutritionist
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise physiologists study the effects of exercise on the human body. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, fitness centers, and research institutions. This course may be useful for those considering a career in exercise physiology because it provides a foundation in the physiology of the cardiovascular system. Exercise physiologists may also work in the field of cardiac rehabilitation, which involves the use of exercise to improve the health of people with cardiovascular diseases. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Exercise Physiologist
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications and provide drug information to patients and other healthcare professionals. They may specialize in one or more subfields of pharmacy, including clinical pharmacy, community pharmacy, or research pharmacy. This course may be useful for those considering a career in pharmacy because it provides a foundation in the pharmacology of cardiovascular medications. Pharmacists may also work in the field of cardiovascular pharmacy, which focuses on the medication management of people with cardiovascular diseases. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist
Nurse
Nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They may specialize in one or more subfields of nursing, including critical care nursing, emergency nursing, or cardiac nursing. This course may be useful for those considering a career in nursing because it provides a foundation in the pathophysiology and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Nurses may also work in the field of cardiovascular nursing, which focuses on the care of people with cardiovascular diseases. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nurse
Public Health Educator
Public health educators develop and implement educational programs to promote health and prevent disease. They may specialize in one or more subfields of public health education, including health promotion, disease prevention, or community health. This course may be useful for those considering a career in public health education because it provides a foundation in the risk factors and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Public health educators may also work in the field of cardiovascular health promotion, which focuses on promoting healthy behaviors and preventing cardiovascular diseases. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Educator
Medical Writer
Medical writers create written materials about medical topics for a variety of audiences, including patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public. This course may be useful for those considering a career in medical writing because it provides a foundation in the pathophysiology and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Medical writers may also specialize in writing about cardiovascular topics. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Writer
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators plan, organize, and manage healthcare organizations. They may specialize in one or more subfields of healthcare administration, including hospital administration, long-term care administration, or health insurance administration. This course may be useful for those considering a career in healthcare administration because it provides a foundation in the delivery of cardiovascular care. Healthcare administrators may also work in the field of cardiovascular health administration, which focuses on the management of cardiovascular care services. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator
Health Insurance Underwriter
Health insurance underwriters evaluate and assess risks associated with providing health insurance to individuals and groups. They may specialize in one or more subfields of health insurance underwriting, including life insurance underwriting, disability insurance underwriting, or long-term care insurance underwriting. This course may be useful for those considering a career in health insurance underwriting because it provides a foundation in the risk factors and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Health insurance underwriters may also specialize in underwriting cardiovascular risk. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Insurance Underwriter
Patient Advocate
Patient advocates represent and support patients in their interactions with healthcare providers and the healthcare system. This course may be useful for those considering a career as a patient advocate because it provides a foundation in the pathophysiology and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Patient advocates may also specialize in advocating for patients with cardiovascular diseases. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Patient Advocate
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare consultants provide consulting services to healthcare organizations, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This course may be useful for those considering a career as a healthcare consultant because it provides a foundation in the delivery of cardiovascular care. Healthcare consultants may also specialize in consulting on cardiovascular care services. This course may be particularly relevant for those interested in this subfield.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Consultant

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Myocardial Infarction.
Cover image
Braunwald's Heart Disease Elsevier - eBook on...
Save
This popular textbook provides extensive coverage of cardiovascular medicine, including myocardial infarction.
Braunwald's Heart Disease Elsevier - eBook on...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Braunwald's Heart Disease: Late-Breaking Clinical...
Save
This comprehensive textbook covers a wide range of cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction. It is an excellent resource for healthcare professionals seeking an overview of cardiovascular medicine.
Braunwald's Heart Disease: Late-Breaking Clinical...
Paperback
Check
Braunwald's Heart Disease: Late-Breaking Clinical...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Braunwald's Heart Disease
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of cardiovascular disease prevention, including its principles, methods, and outcomes. It valuable resource for healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with cardiovascular disease.
Braunwald's Heart Disease
Paperback
Check
Braunwald's Heart Disease
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine 19th...
Save
A concise and practical guide to the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular disorders, including myocardial infarction.
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine 19th...
Paperback
Check
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine 19th...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Vascular Medicine: A Companion to Braunwald's Heart...
Save
Provides an up-to-date overview of cardiovascular disease, with a focus on prevention and management.
Vascular Medicine: A Companion to Braunwald's Heart...
Hardcover
$$$$
Vascular Medicine: A Companion to Braunwald's Heart...
Hardcover
$$$$
Vascular Medicine: A Companion to Braunwald's Heart...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Best Practices: Position and Guidance Documents of...
Save
Provides detailed guidelines for the management of patients with cardiovascular disease.
Best Practices for Hospital & Health-System...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and...
Save
A patient-friendly guide to myocardial infarction, providing information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and...
Spiral-bound
$$$
ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and...
Product Bundle
$$$
ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and...
Misc. Supplies
$$$
ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Action Plan for Diabetes
Save
A guide for patients and families living with heart disease, providing information on managing symptoms, making lifestyle changes, and coping with the emotional challenges of heart disease.
(Español) Plan de acción contra la diabetes: Guía para...
Paperback
$$$
Action Plan for Diabetes (ACSM Action Plan for...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Healthy Heart Handbook for Women
Save
A patient-friendly guide to heart disease, providing information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
The Healthy Heart Handbook for Women '07 - 20th...
Paperback
$$
The Healthy Heart Handbook for Women
Paperback
$$
The Healthy Heart Handbook for Women: Love Your...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Sanders' Paramedic Textbook
Save
A concise and easy-to-understand guide to heart disease, providing information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Sanders' Paramedic Textbook
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
The Health Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to...
Save
A very basic guide to heart disease, providing information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
The Health Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to...
Paperback
$$

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Course image
Rating
4.8 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
Approx. 25 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Zurich
Instructor
Prof. Thomas F. Lüscher
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
This course is tailored towards medical students and healthcare professionals who seek to deepen their understanding of cardiovascular diseases
Taught by Prof. Thomas F. Lüscher, a renowned cardiologist
Provides a comprehensive overview of cardiovascular diseases, from risk factors to prevention and management
Emphasizes the importance of behavioral risk factors and their impact on cardiovascular health
Covers a wide range of topics, including acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, and cardiac rehabilitation
Some modules may require learners to have prior medical or scientific knowledge
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