What should a nurse do first when a patient reports chest pain?

When a patient reports chest pain, the first action a nurse should take is to obtain vital signs and perform a quick assessment. This initial step is crucial because it allows the nurse to evaluate the patient's current condition and determine the severity of the situation. Vital signs provide essential information about the patient's cardiovascular status, and a quick assessment can help identify any immediate threats to the patient's health, such as signs of an acute myocardial infarction or other serious cardiac issues.

By understanding the patient's baseline vitals and any accompanying symptoms, the nurse can prioritize the next steps in care and make informed decisions about interventions. This systematic approach to assessment ensures that any potential life-threatening conditions are recognized and addressed promptly.

While administering pain medication, performing an ECG, or calling the physician might be important subsequent actions, they should follow an initial assessment to guide the nurse's interventions based on the patient's specific needs. For example, the results from the vital signs and quick assessment may indicate the urgency of an ECG or medication administration, thus allowing for a more tailored and effective response.