To determine the outcome of early versus standard discharge after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

This was a prospective cohort study conducted at Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore, for 6 months. 50 patients of STEMI with low risk, aged 25 to 60 years of either gender undergoing primary PCI were included in the study. Patients with moderate and high risk were excluded. The data collected was analyzed in terms of Patient Satisfaction, Complications, Follow-up Challenges and Health Perceptions.

The study included 50 patients (mean age 44.2 ± 1.9 years; 29 males, 21 females). A majority (66%) preferred early discharge. Patients in the early discharge group reported significantly higher satisfaction (mean = 4.2 ± 0.8) compared to the standard discharge group (mean = 3.5 ± 1.0; p = 0.02). Readmission rates were significantly lower in the early discharge group (6%) versus the standard group (24%; p = 0.03). Similarly, complication rates were lower in the early discharge group (3% vs. 18%), with borderline statistical significance (p = 0.05). At 30 days, recovery rates were higher in the early discharge group (80% vs. 60%; p = 0.04). Qualitative analysis revealed more positive feedback, better health perceptions, and fewer follow-up challenges among early discharge patients.

Early discharge in low-risk STEMI patients after primary PCI is a safe and feasible option with good recovery and better patient satisfaction.