ETHOS

I have diabetes and a fever above 100°F along with my cough.

Patient

Hi, thank you for taking my call. I'm not feeling well and I need some advice.

Triage Assistant

Where does it hurt?

Patient

I actually don't have any specific pain, but I'm experiencing a few concerning symptoms.

Triage Assistant

Could you please describe the symptoms you are experiencing?

Patient

Sure, I've got a fever that's above 100°F and I've been dealing with a persistent cough.

Triage Assistant

When did your cough begin?

Patient

It's been about three or four days now since the cough started.

Triage Assistant

Are you having any difficulty breathing? If so, how bad is it?

Patient

I wouldn't say I'm struggling to breathe, but the cough is pretty consistent, and it makes it a bit uncomfortable to take deep breaths.

Triage Assistant

How bad is the cough today? Would you describe it as mild, moderate, or severe?

Patient

I'd describe the cough as moderate. It's not unbearable, but it is persistent and pretty disruptive.

Triage Assistant

What is the color of your sputum, if any? Is it clear, white, yellow, or green?

Patient

I've noticed some sputum, and it's mostly been clear to white in color.

Triage Assistant

Are you coughing up any blood?

Patient

No, I haven't noticed any blood in my sputum.

Triage Assistant

Do you have any history of heart disease or lung disease?

Patient

No, I don't have any history of heart or lung disease.

Triage Assistant

Do you have any other symptoms, such as runny nose, wheezing, or chest pain?

Patient

Not really. The main issues are the fever and the cough; I don't have a runny nose, wheezing, or chest pain.

Triage Assistant

Is there any chance you are pregnant? When was your last menstrual period?

Dispositions

  • Call EMS 911 Now

  • See More Appropriate Protocol

  • Go to ED Now

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

  • Go to Office Now

  • See in Office Today

  • See in Office Today or Tomorrow

  • See in Office Within 3 Days

  • Home Care

  • Triage result should be Go to Office Now.

  • First aid advice was given.

  • All assesssment questions asked.