Reperfusion injury is a major complication associated with the restoration of blood flow to previously ischemic myocardium. The deleterious effects associated with reperfusion injury result from several complex pathologic mechanisms. The complexity of these mechanisms makes development of treatment protocols difficult. The purpose of this article is to review the pathophysiology of reperfusion injury and currently indicated therapies. Implications for advanced practice nursing and areas for further research are presented.

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©2000 American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
2000
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