Beta-blocker therapy for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction.

Beta-blockers are effective agents for secondary prevention post-myocardial infarction (MI). They have antiarrhythmic, anti-ischemic, and antihypertensive effects that decrease morbidity and mortality in patients after an MI. Critical care nurses can play an active role in recognizing those patients, especially high-risk individuals, who may benefit from beta-blocker therapy.