What is the recommended response for chest pain that may be a heart attack?

• A. Have the patient lie flat, give aspirin without consent, and wait.
• B. Move the patient to a hospital immediately without EMS.
• C. Activate EMS, monitor vitals, keep the patient comfortable, and follow local protocol regarding medications.
• D. Give nitroglycerin regardless of prescription.

Answer: (C)

Act quickly to get professional help and support the patient while monitoring their condition. When chest pain could be a heart attack, the top priority is activating EMS right away so advanced caregivers can perform an ECG, provide medications, and transport to a facility. Keeping the patient calm and comfortable helps reduce the heart’s oxygen demand, which can limit further injury. While waiting, continuously monitor vital signs and the patient’s level of consciousness to catch any changes early. Follow local protocols for medications, which typically include administering aspirin if there are no contraindications and providing nitroglycerin only when prescribed and appropriate for the patient, along with other meds as allowed by standing orders. This approach balances urgent assessment, ongoing supportive care, and safe, protocol-driven medication use, rather than delaying care or giving drugs without proper authorization.