Late one night recently, an elderly resident in a residential community in Fengtai District suddenly experienced chest tightness, severe pain, and difficulty breathing while preparing to rest after returning from a trip. His spouse immediately called the emergency number 120 for help. Upon receiving the call, the ambulance team from the Fengtai Emergency Station of the Fengtai Sub-Center set out without delay. En route, emergency physician Feng Zhanshun contacted the family by phone to inquire about the patient’s condition, calm their anxiety, and provide guidance on immediate measures, advising the patient to remain in bed and rest quietly. Based on the patient’s medical history and symptoms, the physician assessed a high likelihood of acute myocardial infarction and instructed the nurse to prepare emergency equipment as the team rushed to the scene.

Upon arrival, the patient reported that his chest pain had eased and refused hospital care. However, he was drenched in sweat and appeared pale. Drawing on clinical experience, Dr. Feng judged that the temporary relief of pain was misleading and persuaded the patient to undergo blood pressure measurement and an electrocardiogram (ECG). The blood pressure reading was 180/90 mmHg, which was elevated, and the ECG showed no typical ST-segment elevation associated with myocardial infarction. Despite continued persuasion by the medical staff, the patient insisted on refusing treatment and asked the team to wait outside while he changed his clothes.

Several minutes later, the patient suddenly cried out in severe pain. The medical staff immediately rushed in and found him pale, profusely sweating, and in obvious distress and panic. Emergency personnel quickly established intravenous access and administered medication. The driver and stretcher attendant swiftly transferred the patient to the ambulance and prepared for transport to the hospital. During transport, medical staff closely monitored the patient’s condition while the driver proceeded rapidly and safely toward the hospital. En route monitoring revealed clear signs of anterior wall myocardial infarction. The physician activated a priority treatment pathway through the electronic medical record system to secure valuable time for emergency care.

Upon arrival at the hospital, the ambulance team promptly transferred the patient to the emergency resuscitation room and handed over clinical information. A repeat ECG performed in the emergency department confirmed the diagnosis of myocardial infarction. After targeted treatment, the patient was stabilized and removed from immediate danger. The medical personnel involved in the rescue reflected that emergency care requires racing against time while remaining cautious and meticulous, as symptoms of acute myocardial infarction can be diverse and easily misjudged.

Here, Beijing 120 reminds the public: cardiac discomfort should never be taken lightly. Temporary relief of pain does not mean recovery—it may be a critical warning signal. Seizing the right moment to seek medical care can be lifesaving.