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Level 0Cardiology Basics

How to Present a Cardiology Patient

Tell the patient’s story clearly and in order — a simple structure beginners can use right away.

Beginner~15 min

Learning Objectives

  • 1.Understand what a "presentation" is and why structure matters.
  • 2.Use a simple order to present a patient.
  • 3.Always include the red flags and the basics.

Overview

A "presentation" is telling the patient’s story to your team clearly and in a predictable order, so they can follow your thinking. A good structure makes you sound organized even when you’re new.

A simple order to follow

  1. 1.Who: one line — age, and any major heart history ("a 68-year-old with high blood pressure").
  2. 2.Why here (chief complaint): the main problem in the patient’s words ("here for chest pain").
  3. 3.The story: when it started, what it feels like, what makes it better or worse, and other symptoms with it.
  4. 4.Background: relevant history and the medicines they take.
  5. 5.Findings: vital signs and anything notable from the exam or tests.
  6. 6.Wrap-up: what you think is going on (at your level) and what was done or is planned.

What to always include

  • •When the symptom started and whether it’s getting worse.
  • •Any red flags (chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting).
  • •The vital signs.
  • •Anything you’re unsure about — it’s okay to say "I’m not sure, but…"

Key vocabulary

  • •Chief complaint = the main reason for the visit, in the patient’s words.
  • •HPI (history of present illness) = the story of the current problem.
  • •Vitals = blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, oxygen, temperature.

A simple example

You need to present a new patient quickly.

What might the first two lines sound like?

Show answer

"This is a 70-year-old with high blood pressure here because his ankles are swollen and he’s short of breath walking to the mailbox. It started about a week ago and has been getting worse." That’s who, why, and the start of the story — clear and in order.

Simple red flags

  • •If the story includes chest pain, trouble breathing, or fainting, say it early and make sure a nurse or provider hears it.

Lead with danger

Red flags go near the top of your presentation so the team can act fast.

Knowledge Check Quiz

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not replace clinical judgment, and is not a substitute for institutional protocols or certified medical interpreters. No patient health information (PHI) should be entered into this application.