Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Chest pain can originate from cardiac ischemia (demand exceeding supply), pleural irritation, musculoskeletal strain, esophageal spasm, or anxiety. Cardiac pain is mediated by visceral afferent nerve fibers that also innervate the arm and jaw, explaining referred pain patterns. Connect Chest Pain Differential to bedside cues you will reassess first: vitals trends, work of breathing, perfusion, mentation, and pain or ischemic equivalents when relevant. Boards reward recognizing when subtle instability outweighs reassurance, then selecting nursing actions that protect airway, circulation, and neurologic status before routine tasks.