Chest Pain and Dyspnea: Diagnostic Reasoning in Primary Care
1 min read
Ms. L.T. is a 61-year-old female presenting with intermittent chest tightness and exertional dyspnea for 3 weeks. History:
• PMH: Hypertension, tobacco use (30 pack-years), anxiety
• Medications: Amlodipine 5 mg daily • Symptoms: Chest discomfort radiating to jaw, relieved
by rest Vitals:
• BP: 156/88 mmHg • HR: 96 bpm
Initial Findings: • EKG: Nonspecific ST-T changes • SpO₂: 95% on room air
Student Assignment Requirements 1. Pathophysiology (25%)
• Compare and contrast ischemic vs non-ischemic chest pain mechanisms
• Explain cardiopulmonary causes of dyspnea • Address anxiety overlap
2. Assessment & Differential Diagnosis (35%) • Focused cardiac and pulmonary exam • Prioritized differential diagnosis • Identification of life-threatening conditions • Decision-making for ED referral vs outpatient
management 3. Pharmacology & Initial Management (30%)
• Acute and chronic pharmacologic considerations • Antihypertensive optimization • Risk reduction strategies • Follow-up testing and referrals
4. APA & Evidence Integration (10%)
REQUIREMENTS:
APA FORMAT CHECK GRAMMAR AND SPELLING
The post Chest Pain and Dyspnea: Diagnostic Reasoning in Primary Care first appeared on Writeden.
