How should a nurse respond to a client experiencing chest pain?

When a client presents with chest pain, the most appropriate response involves a systematic approach to assess the situation effectively. Assessing the patient's vital signs and obtaining an ECG is critical because chest pain can be a symptom of serious conditions, such as a myocardial infarction. Vital signs can provide immediate information about the patient's cardiovascular status, including heart rate and blood pressure, which may help to indicate the severity and nature of the issue.

An ECG is essential for identifying any cardiac abnormalities, such as arrhythmias or ST-segment changes that could indicate ischemia or infarction. By prioritizing these assessments, the nurse can gather important diagnostic information, enabling prompt and appropriate interventions. This method ensures that any underlying conditions are addressed quickly, potentially improving patient outcomes.

In contrast, other options such as reassurance, suggesting relaxation techniques, or administering pain medication without a proper assessment may delay necessary treatments or overlook a potentially critical situation.