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What is the safest nursing action when a patient reports sudden chest pain?
Asked on Oct 26, 2025
Answer
When a patient reports sudden chest pain, it is crucial to act quickly and prioritize their safety using the ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) and pain assessment. This involves immediate assessment and intervention to address potential life-threatening conditions such as myocardial infarction.
Example Nursing Steps:
- Step 1 – Assess the patient's vital signs and level of consciousness to evaluate stability.
- Step 2 – Administer oxygen if needed, ensure the patient is in a comfortable position, and prepare to call for emergency assistance.
- Step 3 – Document the patient's report of pain, interventions taken, and notify the healthcare provider promptly.
Additional Comment:
- Use the PQRST method (Provocation, Quality, Region/Radiation, Severity, Timing) to assess chest pain characteristics.
- Monitor for additional symptoms like shortness of breath, diaphoresis, or nausea, which may indicate a cardiac event.
- Ensure continuous monitoring and readiness to escalate care if the patient's condition deteriorates.
- Communicate clearly with the healthcare team using SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) for effective handoff.
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