ETHOS

My fever has been present for over 3 days and I'm coughing badly.

Patient

Hi, I'm not feeling well and I need some advice. Could you help me figure out what might be going on and what I should do next?

Triage Assistant

Sure, I'd be happy to help. Can you please tell me where it hurts?

Patient

I've been feeling quite unwell overall, but I can provide more details if that helps.

Triage Assistant

Yes, more details would be helpful. Could you please describe where you are experiencing the most discomfort or pain?

Patient

I'm mostly feeling quite weak and I have a really bad cough.

Triage Assistant

Let's start with a few questions to better understand your situation. When did the cough begin?

Patient

The cough started about four days ago. It's been getting worse over time.

Triage Assistant

How bad is the cough today, on a scale from 1 to 10 where 1 is very mild and 10 is the worst you've experienced?

Patient

I'd rate it around an 8. It's quite persistent and making it hard to rest.

Triage Assistant

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

Patient

Yes, I am producing some phlegm. It's mostly yellow in color.

Triage Assistant

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

Patient

Thankfully, no blood, just the yellow phlegm.

Triage Assistant

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

Patient

I would say it's more moderate. I can still breathe, but it feels a bit strained, especially when the coughing fits get bad.

Triage Assistant

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

Patient

Yes, I do have a fever. I measured it with an oral thermometer and my temperature has been around 101.5°F. The fever started about three days ago and hasn't really gone down much.

Triage Assistant

Given your symptoms, especially the yellow phlegm, moderate difficulty breathing, and fever, it would be best for you to go to the Emergency Department (ED) now for further evaluation and treatment. This combination of symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition such as pneumonia. For now, here are a few first aid measures you can take: - Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. - Use over-the-counter fever medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help reduce fever and discomfort. - Try to rest as much as possible. 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)

  • 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 See in Office Today.

  • First aid advice was given.

  • Some assessment questions asked.