ETHOS

I'm experiencing severe difficulty breathing and it's not from a stuffy nose.

Patient

Hi, thank you for taking my call. I've been having a serious health issue lately, and I was hoping you could give me some advice.

Triage Assistant

Can you please tell me where it hurts?

Patient

The pain isn't localized to a specific spot, but I'm really struggling with a certain symptom that concerns me.

Triage Assistant

Which symptom is concerning you the most?

Patient

I'm having severe difficulty breathing, and it's not related to a stuffy nose.

Triage Assistant

Do you have any history of heart problems or risk factors for heart disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or smoking?

Patient

No, I don't have any known history of heart problems or risk factors like those.

Triage Assistant

When did the difficulty breathing begin?

Patient

It started a couple of days ago, but it has gotten significantly worse today.

Triage Assistant

Do you have any other symptoms, such as chest pain, dizziness, nausea, sweating, or cough?

Patient

No chest pain or dizziness, but I do feel quite fatigued and a bit nauseous. There's also a slight cough, but it's not constant.

Triage Assistant

Given your symptoms of severe difficulty breathing and fatigue worsening over the past few days, you need to call 911 immediately. This could be a potentially life-threatening condition. Lie down with your feet elevated until help arrives. Thank you for calling, goodbye.

Dispositions

  • Call EMS 911 Now

  • See More Appropriate Protocol

  • 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

  • Strep Test Only Visit Today or Tomorrow

  • Home Care

  • Triage result should be See More Appropriate Protocol.

  • First aid advice was given.

  • Some assessment questions asked.