During an interview using SAM, a person reports severe pain in their left arm. What should you do next?

The appropriate action in this scenario is to perform a focused check of the person's left arm. This step is essential because the individual is reporting severe pain specifically in that area, which may indicate an injury or a potential medical emergency, such as a heart-related issue, especially if they are also exhibiting symptoms that could suggest a heart attack. Conducting a focused check allows you to assess the arm for any visible signs of injury, such as deformities, swelling, or cuts, and also helps determine the nature and extent of the pain.

Understanding the specifics of the pain and any associated symptoms is critical in providing the right care or making informed decisions about the need for further medical assistance. This focused assessment can guide your next steps, whether it involves providing comfort, calling for help, or taking additional actions based on what you discover during your assessment.