Treatment and care should take into account people's needs and preferences. People with
recent chest pain or discomfort of suspected cardiac origin should have the opportunity to make
informed decisions about their care and treatment, in partnership with their healthcare
professionals. If people do not have the capacity to make decisions, healthcare professionals
should follow the Department of Health's advice on consent and the code of practice that
accompanies the Mental Capacity Act. In Wales, healthcare professionals should follow advice
on consent from the Welsh Government.
Good communication between healthcare professionals and the person with chest pain is
essential. It should be supported by evidence-based written information tailored to the person's
needs. It should be recognised that the person may be anxious, particularly when the cause of
the chest pain is unknown. The options and consequences at every stage of the investigative
process should be clearly explained. Investigations, treatment and care, and the information
people are given about them, should be culturally appropriate. It should also be accessible to
people with additional needs such as physical, sensory or learning disabilities, and to people who
do not speak or read English.
If the person agrees, families and carers should have the opportunity to be involved in decisions
about treatment and care.
Families and carers should also be given the information and support they need.