A 52-year-old man with chest pain and tachycardia has ECG evidence of an acute MI. The following is/are true:

a. Thrombolytic therapy should be considered immediately since the benefit is greater the earlier it is given

Thrombolytic therapy for acute MI is of significant value in reducing mortality with benefit related to early administration. Although rtPA can produce higher coronary patency rates, the results of treatment are no better than with SK or APSAC. Thrombolytic drugs were initially given intracoronary but can be used effectively when given systemically IV. There is an added benefit from heparin and antiplatelet drugs to prevent rethrombosis.