When a post-operative patient develops sudden chest pain, what should a nurse prioritize?

Prioritizing the assessment of the post-operative patient experiencing sudden chest pain is crucial due to the potential for life-threatening conditions, such as pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, or other complications related to surgery. Immediate assessment allows the nurse to quickly gather vital information, including the patient's vital signs, severity of pain, and any accompanying symptoms.

Timely intervention can be critical in these scenarios, as early detection of serious complications can significantly impact patient outcomes. Notifying the provider is also essential so that further diagnostic tests or interventions can be initiated without delay. The priority is always to ensure patient safety and address any acute changes in the patient's condition promptly. This approach aligns with the nursing principle of rapid response to changes in patient status, especially post-operatively when complications can arise unexpectedly.