Which symptom should prompt a nurse to suspect a complication in a patient with coronary artery disease?

Chest pain during exertion is a classic symptom that often indicates a complication in patients with coronary artery disease, particularly angina pectoris. This type of chest pain typically occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood due to narrowed or blocked arteries. It's significant because it suggests that the heart is under stress, potentially leading to more severe complications such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) or unstable angina.

Identifying chest pain during exertion allows healthcare providers to recognize that the patient may be experiencing ischemia, meaning tissue is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood. This situation requires immediate attention, as it may signify an impending cardiac event. Monitoring and intervention at this stage can help prevent further deterioration of the patient's condition.

Other symptoms like headache, mild shortness of breath, and persistent fatigue may occur in various conditions and are not as specific for acute complications associated with coronary artery disease. While they can be relevant, they do not directly point to the urgent need for evaluation related to the heart's oxygen supply and demand.