ETHOS

My chest pain started during a workout and hasn't subsided after resting.

Patient

Hi, I've been experiencing some discomfort and I'm hoping to get some advice on what might be going on.

Triage Assistant

I'm here to help. Where exactly does it hurt?

Patient

It's in my chest.

Triage Assistant

Does the pain go anywhere else, like your neck, jaw, arms, or back?

Patient

No, it's pretty much just in my chest.

Triage Assistant

When did the chest pain begin?

Patient

It started a little while ago during a workout.

Triage Assistant

Does the pain come and go, or has it been constant since it started? Does it get worse with exertion?

Patient

It's been pretty constant since it started. I did notice it during my workout and even after resting, it hasn't really subsided.

Triage Assistant

How long does the pain last—seconds, minutes, or hours?

Patient

It's been going on for a couple of hours now.

Triage Assistant

On a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 is mild pain and 10 is the worst pain imaginable, how would you rate your pain? - MILD (1-3): doesn't interfere with normal activities - MODERATE (4-7): interferes with normal activities or awakens from sleep - SEVERE (8-10): excruciating pain, unable to do any normal activities

Patient

I would say it's around a 6 or 7. It definitely makes it hard to concentrate and do usual activities.

Triage Assistant

Do you have any history of heart problems or risk factors for heart disease? This includes things like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or a strong family history of heart disease.

Patient

I don't have diabetes or high blood pressure as far as I know, but I do have a family history of heart disease.

Triage Assistant

Given your symptoms and family history, I strongly advise you to go to the emergency department immediately for further evaluation. Chest pain lasting over 5 minutes, especially when it doesn't go away and impacts daily activities, is concerning. While you wait for medical help, you should: - Rest and avoid any exertion. - If you are trained in CPR, have someone nearby who can help continue to monitor you. Thank you for calling, goodbye.

Dispositions

  • Call EMS 911 Now

  • See More Appropriate Protocol

  • Go to ED Now

  • Go to ED/UCC Now (or to Office With PCP Approval)

  • Callback by PCP Within 1 Hour

  • See in Office Today

  • Home Care

  • Triage result should be Call EMS 911 Now.

  • First aid advice was given.

  • Some assessment questions asked.