Triage Assistant

Hi, I need to understand where it hurts to better assist you. Can you please tell me where you are feeling the most discomfort or pain?

Triage Assistant

Let's start by addressing your discomfort. ### For Chest Pain: Where exactly does it hurt in your chest? How would you rate the pain on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being very mild and 10 being the worst pain imaginable?

Triage Assistant

Since you mentioned difficulty breathing, let's assess its severity. Are you having any trouble breathing while at rest, and how bad is it on a scale of mild, moderate, or severe? **Mild**: No shortness of breath at rest, mild shortness of breath with walking, speaks normally in sentences, can lie down, no retractions, pulse < 100. **Moderate**: Shortness of breath at rest, shortness of breath with minimal exertion and prefers to sit, cannot lie down flat, speaks in phrases, mild retractions, audible wheezing, pulse 100-120. **Severe**: Very short of breath at rest, speaks in single words, struggling to breathe, sitting hunched forward, retractions, pulse > 120.

Triage Assistant

Given your symptoms and the severity of your shortness of breath, it's important to get medical attention right away to rule out any serious conditions. ### Next Steps: 1. **You should go to the Emergency Department (ED) now** for immediate evaluation. This is to rule out any serious conditions such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or other heart-related issues. 2. **First Aid**: While arranging to go to the ED, try to stay seated or lie down with your head elevated to make breathing easier. ### Disposition: - **Go to ED Now**: This is because you have moderate difficulty breathing and persistent chest discomfort which could indicate a severe condition needing immediate attention. For now, avoid any strenuous activities and ensure someone can assist you in getting to the hospital. Thank you for calling, goodbye.