When a patient presents with chest pain, what is the first task to perform?

In the context of assessing a patient who presents with chest pain, obtaining vital signs is a crucial first step. This task helps to establish a baseline of the patient's current condition, providing essential information regarding the heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. Monitoring these parameters can help identify any immediate abnormalities that may indicate a serious condition, such as a myocardial infarction or other cardiac event.

Once vital signs are obtained, healthcare providers can make informed decisions about further interventions and prioritize the patient's care accordingly. For instance, if the vital signs reveal instability, immediate measures can be taken to address any potential life-threatening issues.

While the other tasks mentioned are important, they typically follow the initial assessment of vital signs. Calling for assistance may be necessary in certain situations, especially if the patient requires advanced support, but it is usually done in conjunction with obtaining vital signs. Administering pain relief and performing an ECG are certainly important steps in the management of chest pain, but knowing the patient's vital signs first can guide the urgency and type of interventions that may be needed.