Chest Pain Basics
What is the common name for a STEMI?
Heart Attack
What symptom often spreads to the arm, jaw, or back?
Radiating Pain
What does the “S” in SAMPLE stand for?
Signs and Symptoms
What emergency number is used in Australia?
000
A patient is talking normally with mild chest discomfort. What is your first action?
Assess using OPQRST and monitor
What is atherosclerosis?
Build-up of fatty plaques in the arteries that reduces blood flow
Name TWO associated symptoms that often occur with chest pain.
Examples:
What does the “R” in OPQRST stand for?
Region/Radiation
What is the first action when someone presents with chest pain?
Follow DRSABCD / ensure scene safety before assessing the patient
A patient has chest pain that is worsening and not relieved by rest. What condition is most concerning?
Unstable angina or possible heart attack
What is angina caused by?
Reduced blood flow to the heart
Give TWO symptoms of unstable angina.
Examples:
Which OPQRST question assesses severity?
“Rate the pain out of 10.”
What medication may be given for a suspected heart attack if appropriate?
Asprin
A patient says: "I've had this chest pain before and it usually goes away when I rest." What condition might they have a history of?
Angina
What is a heart attack?
A blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle
Name THREE symptoms commonly associated with cardiac arrest.
Examples:
Give one important history question to ask a patient with chest pain.
Examples:
A patient suddenly becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally. What should you do?
Start CPR and use an AED
A patient reports chest pain for the first time. What should you do?
Treat as serious and escalate (call 000)
What is the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest?
A heart attack is a blockage affecting the heart muscle.
Cardiac arrest is when the heart stops pumping effectively.
Identify the MOST dangerous set of symptoms:
A. Chest discomfort with exertion only
B. Chest pain with sweating and nausea
C. Sudden collapse with no normal breathing
D. Chest pain after heavy meal
C
Why is it important to ask whether a patient has had similar chest pain before?
It can help determine whether the pain is new, worsening, or similar to previous episodes such as angina.
Name one reason NOT to give aspirin.
Examples:
A patient has chest pain with sweating, nausea, and shortness of breath. What should you suspect?
Heart Attack