Nursing Care Plan for Chest Pain
Also searched as: angina, cardiac chest pain
🎓 Educational example. Adapt to your patient and have your instructor review it. Not medical advice.
Chest discomfort that may signal cardiac ischemia and must be treated as potentially life-threatening until ruled out. Nursing care is rapid assessment and relief.
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Assessment
- Subjective: chest pressure/pain, possible radiation, dyspnea
- Objective: ECG changes, abnormal vitals, diaphoresis, elevated cardiac markers
Nursing diagnoses
As evidenced by: chest pain report, ECG/vital changes
Goals / expected outcomes
- The patient will report relief of chest pain and maintain stable cardiac status.
Nursing interventions & rationale
| Intervention | Rationale |
|---|---|
| Obtain a 12-lead ECG immediately and assess pain (OPQRST). | Rapid ECG identifies ischemia/MI in the treatment window. |
| Give oxygen if hypoxic, aspirin, and nitroglycerin as ordered; reassess pain. | Reduces ischemia and clot risk. |
| Monitor continuous cardiac rhythm and vitals. | Detects arrhythmias and deterioration. |
| Promote rest and reassurance to lower cardiac demand. | Reduces myocardial oxygen demand and anxiety. |
Evaluation
- Chest pain relieved
- Stable rhythm and vitals
- Cause identified/treated
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Build a care plan free See Student plan — $6.99/monthChest Pain care plan: FAQ
What is the nursing diagnosis for Chest Pain?
Common nursing diagnoses include: Acute pain related to possible myocardial ischemia. Choose the one your patient's assessment data supports.
What are nursing interventions for Chest Pain?
Key interventions: Obtain a 12-lead ECG immediately and assess pain (OPQRST).; Give oxygen if hypoxic, aspirin, and nitroglycerin as ordered; reassess pain.; Monitor continuous cardiac rhythm and vitals. — each paired with a rationale.
Can I use this care plan for my assignment?
Use it as a study example and starting draft. Always adapt it to your specific patient and have it reviewed by your instructor. This is an educational tool, not medical advice.
Last reviewed 2026-07. Educational content based on standard nursing practice; not medical advice and not affiliated with NANDA-I/NIC/NOC. Always follow your institution's protocols and your instructor's guidance.