Which intervention should a nurse perform when caring for a client reporting chest pain in the emergency department?

Initiating oxygen therapy is a critical intervention for a client reporting chest pain, especially in an emergency department setting. Chest pain can be indicative of a variety of serious conditions, including myocardial infarction (heart attack) or other cardiac issues, where the heart may not be receiving sufficient oxygen. By administering oxygen, the nurse aims to improve the oxygen supply to the heart muscle, thereby alleviating pain and potentially preventing further damage.

This approach is supported by guidelines and protocols that prioritize the rapid assessment and management of chest pain, ensuring that oxygenation is optimized as a first step while further diagnostic and therapeutic measures are being taken. Timely intervention in such cases can make a significant difference in patient outcomes, emphasizing the importance of oxygen therapy in emergency care scenarios.