What should a nurse prioritize when caring for a patient with chest pain?

When caring for a patient experiencing chest pain, the highest priority is to assess the patient's pain and seek immediate medical assistance. Chest pain can be a symptom of a serious condition such as a myocardial infarction (heart attack), pulmonary embolism, or other cardiac issues, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

Assessing the patient's pain involves obtaining a thorough history, determining the onset, duration, and nature of the pain, as well as identifying any associated symptoms. This assessment helps in forming a clinical picture that guides the necessary interventions and treatments. Seeking immediate medical assistance ensures that the patient receives appropriate care, such as monitoring, medication, or potential interventions like advanced imaging or cardiac procedures.

While encouraging the patient to take deep breaths, offering water, or documenting the symptoms are essential aspects of nursing care, they cannot replace the imperative action of assessing the situation and securing urgent medical intervention when a patient presents with chest pain. The primary goal is to ensure the patient’s safety and address any potentially life-threatening conditions without delay.