Following a neighbor's report of chest pain and sweating, what action should the practical nurse take?

• A. Call 9-1-1.
• B. Call 9-1-1 and give her husband an Aspirin (ASA) if available.
• C. Call 9-1-1 and place her husband in a knee-chest position.
• D. Call 9-1-1 and cover her husband with a blanket.

Answer: (B)

Chest pain with sweating can be a sign of a heart attack. The most important step is to get emergency services started right away and begin aspirin therapy if there are no contraindications. Call 911 now so EMS can provide advanced care and transport. Aspirin helps by inhibiting platelets and can reduce heart damage if given early in a suspected heart attack; give a standard chewable dose (typically 160–325 mg) if the person has no allergy, active bleeding, or other contraindications. If aspirin isn’t available or there are safety concerns, follow EMS instructions. Placing the person in a knee-chest position isn’t helpful and can hinder breathing, while simply covering with a blanket addresses comfort rather than the emergency. So, the best course is to call 911 and administer aspirin if able and safe.