Objective: To analyze the concept "sharp pain" in the context of acute myocardial infarction.
Methods: Conceptual analysis method proposed by Walker and Avant. This makes it possible to clarify the concept of attributes. We conducted an integrative review to assist the search of studies published in 2006 and 2012, using the descriptors 'Acute Pain' and 'myocardial infarction', through consultation to Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Scopus and Public/Publish Medline (PubMed) data.
Results: A sample of 29 studies was selected in which the background identified was: reduction of myocardial perfusion and/or death of myocardial tissue; attributes: quality, location, time, duration and irradiation; and consequent: report of pain, dyspnea, high heart rate, nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, high respiratory rate, sleep disturbance, diaphoresis, fatigue, paleness, weakness, anxiety and fear.
Conclusion: The findings have clarified the attributes of the concept sharp pain in myocardial infarction.