Question

Your patient is a 45-year-old man who is suffering from chest pain. Upon arrival, the patient is pale, sweaty, and seems short of breath. The patient is angry with his daughter for calling 911. He says that he had some spicy sausage for breakfast and has indigestion. Which of the following is an appropriate means of getting the patient the care he needs?

A. Inform the patient that if he does not agree to treatment, you will have to take him against his will because he has a potentially life-threatening problem.
B. Try to find out why the patient does not want to go to the hospital.
C. Call the patient's neighbors and tell them that you have been called to the patient's house but he is now refusing care.
D. Tell the patient that his chest pain is most likely caused by his diet, have him take an antacid, and go to bed.

Answer 1

In this scenario, the appropriate means of getting the patient the care he needs would be to try to find out why the patient does not want to go to the hospital (option B), while also explaining the potential seriousness of his symptoms and the importance of immediate medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient in this scenario is a 45-year-old man who is experiencing chest pain, pale skin, sweating, and shortness of breath. Based on these symptoms, it is important to consider the possibility of a potentially life-threatening condition such as angina or a heart attack. Therefore, an appropriate means of getting the patient the care he needs would be to try to find out why the patient does not want to go to the hospital (option B), while also explaining the potential seriousness of his symptoms and the importance of immediate medical attention. By assessing the patient's concerns and providing education, the paramedic can help the patient make an informed decision and ensure he receives the appropriate care.