In a client with pneumonia reporting chest pain, what is the priority diagnostic test following the initiation of chest pain protocol?

In a client presenting with pneumonia and reporting chest pain, the priority diagnostic test following the initiation of a chest pain protocol is a 12-lead ECG. This choice is crucial because chest pain can have multiple etiologies, including cardiac issues, which are often life-threatening. The 12-lead ECG is a rapid and effective tool used to assess the electrical activity of the heart and identify potential abnormalities such as ischemia, arrhythmias, or myocardial infarction.

The urgency of evaluating cardiac causes of chest pain cannot be overstated, especially in the context of pneumonia, where respiratory distress may mask underlying cardiac complications. By proceeding with a 12-lead ECG, healthcare providers can make timely decisions for further investigation or intervention if any acute cardiac issues are detected.

While other diagnostic tests, like a chest X-ray, are important for assessing the extent of the pneumonia and ruling out other pulmonary complications, they do not provide immediate information about the heart's status. B-type natriuretic peptide tests can be useful in evaluating heart failure but are not the first-line assessment during an acute chest pain situation. A complete blood count can help in assessing for infection or anemia but is not specific to the causes of chest pain. Therefore, prioritizing the 12