During the primary assessment, a 57-year-old female says she has chest pain and points to her epigastric area. What should you do?

In situations where a patient presents with chest pain, especially in an older adult, it is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation. Administering oxygen helps to increase the availability of oxygen to the heart and other vital organs, which is essential if the patient is experiencing any type of cardiac event or ischemia. In this specific case, the location of the pain in the epigastric area could suggest gastrointestinal issues or even atypical angina symptoms, which can occur in women.

Administering oxygen is a foundational intervention during the primary assessment of a patient with chest pain, regardless of whether the etiology is cardiac or non-cardiac. It is essential to support the patient’s respiratory needs while also preparing for further assessment and treatment, as oxygen can mitigate some of the immediate risks associated with hypoxia and potential cardiac compromise. This initial step is critical in managing the patient's comfort and stability before proceeding with other interventions or assessments.