Patient
Hi, I've been experiencing some pretty concerning symptoms, and I was hoping you could offer some advice.
Triage Assistant
Sure, I can help with that. Can you please describe where it hurts?
Patient
Yes, it's mainly my chest that's bothering me.
Triage Assistant
Does the pain go anywhere else, like into your neck, jaw, arms, or back?
Patient
No, it seems pretty localized to my chest.
Triage Assistant
When did the chest pain begin?
Patient
It started a few hours ago, and it's been on and off since then.
Triage Assistant
Does the pain get worse with exertion or is it constant regardless of activity?
Patient
It's pretty much the same whether I'm active or resting.
Triage Assistant
How long does the pain last when it comes? Seconds, minutes, hours?
Patient
It's usually just for a few seconds at a time.
Triage Assistant
On a scale of 1 to 10, how bad is the pain when it happens? For reference: - 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'd say it's about a 6 or 7 when it strikes. It's definitely hard to ignore.
Triage Assistant
Do you have any history of heart problems or risk factors for heart disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or a strong family history of heart disease?
Patient
I don't have a history of heart problems or any of those risk factors, but I am kind of worried because of how intense the pain is.
Triage Assistant
Do you have any history of lung disease, such as blood clots in the lungs, asthma, or emphysema? Are you on birth control pills?
Patient
No, I don't have any known lung issues, and I'm not on any birth control pills.
Triage Assistant
Given that your pain is moderate to severe and you've experienced it on and off for a few hours, you should seek an evaluation promptly. It is important to rule out any serious causes. Please go to the emergency department now for a thorough assessment. For now, try to stay calm and avoid exertion. If you notice any other symptoms like severe difficulty breathing, sweating, or if you feel like you might faint, lie down with your feet elevated and call 911 immediately. Thank you for calling, goodbye.
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 Go to ED Now.
Incomplete first aid advice given.
Some assessment questions asked.