2/10/2026
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Posted by Dr. Richard Gajdowski
in
Health and Wellness,
Heart Health
If you or someone you love has chest pain, going to the emergency room can feel scary. Knowing what will happen can help you feel safer. When you arrive, the doctors and nurses will work fast to check your heart.
1. Quick Check When You Arrive
A nurse will ask how you feel and how bad the pain is. If the pain sounds serious, you will be seen right away. They might put a monitor on you to check your heart rate and oxygen.
2. Heart Test (EKG)
You will likely get a heart test within 10 minutes. The test is called an electrocardiogram (EKG).
What it is: Small sticky pads are placed on your chest, arms, and legs.
What it does: An EKG checks the electrical activity of your heart to see if you are having a heart attack. It does not hurt.
3. Blood Tests
A small amount of blood will be taken. Doctors are looking for a protein called troponin. When the heart is damaged, this protein leaks into the blood.
4. Other Tests or Medication
Chest X-ray: Takes pictures of your heart and lungs.
Medication: You may be given medication, like aspirin, to help your heart or pain.
5. What Happens Next
If the tests look good, you may be sent home. If there is a problem, you may be kept in the hospital or be seen by a heart doctor.
If you are not sure what to do, call 911. It is always better to be safe.