Symptom: Pain, Chest

Initial Grading Reminder

CTCAE grading of chest pain:

Grade 1: Mild pain
Grade 2: Moderate pain; limiting instrumental ADLs
Grade 3: Severe pain; limiting self-care ADLs

Assessment and Grading

Characterize the symptom (onset, pace)

Ask the patient:

Have you had issues with chest pain the past? Is this a new or worsening symptom? When did it start or get worse? Has it developed gradually or suddenly? Have you been using your arms a lot? (suggestive of costochondritis)

Grade the symptom

Ask the patient:

Can you describe your pain–dull, heavy, or sharp, stabbing, constant, or intermittent? How would you rate the pain: mild, moderate, or severe?

Patient Query Regarding Other Symptoms/Red Flags

Ask the patient:

Do you have any nausea/vomiting? Does your heart feel like it is racing or skipping a beat? Do you have any pain in your shoulder or radiating down your arm?

Patient Factors to Consider That Affect the Approach to Intervention

Consider the following in individualizing the intervention: Is the patient a good or poor historian? Any language barriers or cognitive deficits? Is the patient reliable (able to carry out treatment recommendations)? Does this patient have alcohol/substance abuse issues? Does the patient have transportation? Is there sufficient caregiver support?