Question

Which of the following patients should be seen first if the physician has just arrived and several patients are waiting to be seen?

A. A patient complaining of chest pain radiating to the jaw
B. A patient scheduled for a medicine recheck
C. A patient with a newly found breast lump
D. A patient who is reporting burning and pain on urination
E. A patient with a severely swollen ankle

Answer 1

The patient with chest pain radiating to the jaw should be seen first as these symptoms could indicate a potential heart attack, requiring immediate medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient who should be seen first by the physician is A. A patient complaining of chest pain radiating to the jaw. This symptom suggests a potential acute myocardial infarction (MI) and requires immediate attention due to the risk of a heart attack. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical in these cases. Chest pain, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms such as radiating pain, shortness of breath, and sweating, can be indicative of serious cardiac conditions.