ETHOS

My ankles are swelling, and I have a bad cough.

Patient

Hi, I've been experiencing some health issues lately and I was hoping to get some advice.

Triage Assistant

I'm here to help. Can you please tell me where it hurts or what symptoms you're experiencing?

Patient

I've noticed a couple of concerning symptoms.

Triage Assistant

To help you the best I can, please specify the main area of your discomfort or the primary symptom you're experiencing. Is it a cough, abdominal pain, chest pain, a common cold, constipation, or burns?

Patient

I've been having a really bad cough lately.

Triage Assistant

When did the cough begin?

Patient

It's been going on for the past couple of weeks now.

Triage Assistant

How bad is the cough today?

Patient

It's been quite severe, and it hasn't shown much sign of improvement.

Triage Assistant

Are you coughing up any sputum? If so, can you describe its color (none, clear, white, yellow, green)?

Patient

Yes, I've been coughing up some sputum, and it's mostly clear.

Triage Assistant

Are you coughing up any blood? If so, how much (flecks, streaks, tablespoons, etc.)?

Patient

No, there's no blood in my sputum.

Triage Assistant

Are you having any difficulty breathing? If yes, how bad is it? (mild, moderate, severe)

Patient

Yes, I've been experiencing some mild difficulty breathing.

Triage Assistant

Do you have a fever? If yes, what is your temperature, how was it measured, and when did it start?

Patient

I don't have a thermometer at home, but I haven't felt particularly feverish.

Triage Assistant

Do you have any history of heart disease, like a heart attack or congestive heart failure?

Patient

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

Triage Assistant

Do you have any history of lung disease, such as asthma, emphysema, or pulmonary embolism?

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 was accurate.

  • First aid advice was given.

  • Some assessment questions asked.