When assessing a patient with chest pain, what vital sign is critical to monitor?

Monitoring blood pressure is crucial when assessing a patient with chest pain because it provides essential information about the patient's cardiovascular status. Changes in blood pressure can indicate the severity of the underlying condition, such as a myocardial infarction or other cardiac events. A significant drop in blood pressure may suggest hypoperfusion or shock, which requires immediate intervention. Conversely, elevated blood pressure can indicate increased stress on the heart or the presence of conditions such as hypertension.

While monitoring temperature, pulse oximetry, and respiratory rate can offer valuable insight into the patient's overall health and other potential complications, blood pressure directly reflects the status of the heart and circulatory system. In the context of chest pain, this vital sign is particularly telling and can guide critical treatment decisions, making it the most important parameter to watch closely during the assessment.