What is the priority nursing action for a patient with chest pain?

In the context of a patient presenting with chest pain, assessing the patient's vital signs is a critical initial nursing action. Vital signs provide essential information about the patient’s current physiological status and can indicate the severity of the situation. Changes in heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation can offer insights into possible complications, such as myocardial ischemia or infarction. Monitoring these parameters allows the nurse to recognize any deterioration in the patient's condition promptly, facilitating timely interventions.

While obtaining a 12-lead ECG, providing oxygen therapy, and administering nitroglycerin are all important actions in the management of chest pain, they typically follow or occur simultaneously with the assessment of vital signs. Evaluating vital signs establishes a baseline for the patient's condition and can help inform subsequent interventions. Prioritizing this assessment ensures that the nurse can respond appropriately based on the overall clinical picture. In emergency situations, this foundational step is essential for guiding further diagnostics and treatment.