Let’s talk Chest Pain

OPQRST

Onset: What activity triggered the pain? Understanding the context can help differentiate cardiac from non-cardiac causes.

Palliation/Provocation: What eases or provokes the pain?

Quality: Cardiac pain is often described as heavy, crushing, or squeezing

Region/Radiation: Identifying where the pain is located and if it radiates to other areas

Severity: Use a 0-10 pain scale to gauge the intensity of the pain.

Timing: Document the duration and timing of the pain to assess its progression.

In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Rob Timmings from ECT for Health, who shared invaluable insights into the management of chest pain in emergency settings. Whether you're a seasoned nurse or just starting your career, understanding the protocols for chest pain assessment is crucial.

Rob emphasized the need for standardized protocols in chest pain assessment. The OPQRST method serves as a foundational tool for evaluating chest pain, ensuring that all clinicians, regardless of experience, can effectively assess patients.