Evaluating a Nurse-Led Pathway for Diagnosing and Managing Non-Traumatic Chest Pain in the Emergency Department Compared to Standard Medical Care

What this Trial Is About

Chest pain is a common reason for visits to the emergency department, with causes ranging from mild issues like musculoskeletal or psychogenic pain to more serious conditions such as coronary problems. This research evaluates how safe and effective a nursing pathway is for managing patients who come to the emergency department with non-traumatic chest pain, comparing it with usual medical care. The study is interventional and aims to improve initial management by specially trained nurses following a standardized protocol. The study involves three main phases. First, emergency nurses with at least five years of experience and training receive specialized instruction on managing non-traumatic chest pain. Next, 182 patients presenting with chest pain are enrolled and assigned either to a group cared for by these trained nurses using a recommended algorithm or to a control group receiving usual medical care. Both groups are closely monitored by physicians, and an independent committee reviews the management and diagnostic compliance. Lastly, patients are followed up by phone one month after their emergency visit to record any serious events, additional tests, and overall satisfaction. Participants will be assessed through clinical examinations, electrocardiograms, chest x-rays, and ongoing physician reviews during their emergency department stay. Data will be collected on diagnosis accuracy, management timing, and patient outcomes including major cardiac events and care consumption at one month. Patient satisfaction and quality of life are also evaluated at discharge and after one month. The study includes safety oversight by a monitoring board and final analysis of diagnostic compliance to ensure thorough evaluation across both nursing and medical care groups.

Chest Pain Nurse Track