You are caring for a 32-year-old male client who pushes his call light stating he is experiencing intermittent, sharp precordial chest pain that radiates to his neck since being admitted during the night. He gets relief if he sits and leans forward, but the pain gets worse with swallowing.
He rates the pain at 5 out of 10 on a numerical scale. He has not received any medication for the pain since admitted to your floor. On physical examination, a pericardial friction rub can be heard. From your morning report, you are aware that he had an upper respiratory tract infection two weeks ago.
Based on the client’s presenting symptoms and physical findings, discuss the most probable diagnosis that would support your response with evidence from the literature.
