A 40-year-old Patient in the Waiting Room of the Primary Care Provider's Office Approaches a Staff Member

A 40-year-old patient in the waiting room of the primary care provider's office approaches a staff member and says, "I'm having really severe, crushing chest pain that is moving to both my arms." The patient is diaphoretic and dyspneic. Which action would be appropriate for the staff member to take?

A. Activate the emergency medical services system.
B. Take the patient to an exam room immediately.
C. Give the patient an aspirin.
D. Obtain a 12-lead ECG.

Correct answer is option A. Activate the emergency medical services system.