US Medical Term · emergency
Chief Complaint
Motivo principal de consulta
Also: Queja principal (regional variant)
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Chief Complaint |
| Spanish (Español) | Motivo principal de consulta |
| Chinese (中文) | 主訴 |
| Korean (한국어) | 주호소 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Lý do chính khám bệnh |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Pangunahing reklamo |
| Portuguese (Português) | Queixa principal |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | อาการหลักที่มาพบแพทย์ |
| Japanese (日本語) | 主訴 |
What it means
The chief complaint is the main reason a patient seeks medical care, described in the patient's own words. It is one of the first pieces of information documented when you arrive at the emergency room or a clinic. Examples include 'chest pain,' 'shortness of breath,' or 'fever for three days.' Clearly stating your chief complaint helps staff triage you correctly and begin appropriate workup faster. Be as specific as possible: describe when the problem started, where you feel it, how severe it is, and whether anything makes it better or worse. This information directly shapes the care plan.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My main reason for coming to the ER today is severe chest pain.
Mi motivo principal para venir a la sala de emergencias hoy es un dolor de pecho severo.
The nurse wrote down my chief complaint as difficulty breathing.
La enfermera anotó mi motivo principal de consulta como dificultad para respirar.
Please describe your chief complaint so the doctor can help you.
Por favor describa su motivo principal de consulta para que el médico pueda ayudarlo.
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026