Signs and symptoms of cardiac distress

Question 1

Angina

Answer 1

chest pain described as squeezing, tightness, aching, burning or choking. Generally substernal and may radiate to arms, jaw, neck or back.

Question 2

short of breath with activity or rest (note activity and time needed to resolve). At rest with a respiratory rate over 30 may require EMS (this is also a sign of acute CHF).

Answer 2

Dyspnea

Question 3

cold, clammy sweat

Answer 3

Diaphoresis

Question 4

Orthopnea

Answer 4

dyspnea brought on by lying flat (count the number of pillows that patient needs to breathe comfortably during sleep).

Question 5

a drop over 10 of systolic blood pressure

Answer 5

Blood Pressure

Question 6

patient is feeling faint, weak, or unsteady

Answer 6

Dizziness

Question 7

vomiting or signs that the patient feels sick to stomach

Answer 7

Nausea/Emesis:

Question 8

Ataxia

Answer 8

patient lacks muscle control of voluntary movements

Question 9

Cyanosis

Answer 9

skin takes on a bluish coloration due to lack of circulation or oxygenation of the blood

Question 10

patient is pale, and generally unhealthy looking

Answer 10

Pallor