A confused 62-year-old female fell at home, hitting the side of a table with her chest. Assessment reveals instability to the left lateral chest accompanied by minor bruising in the same area. She complains of intense pain every time she breathes. Her airway is patent, breathing is rapid and shallow, and skin warm and nondiaphoretic. Vital signs are pulse 112, respirations 24, and blood pressure

132/64 mmHg with SpO2 at 90%. Breath sounds are shallow but equal to both lungs. Based on those findings, you should treat this patient for what life-threatening condition?

A) Shock
B) Pain
C) Pneumothorax
D) Hypoxia


D

Health Professions

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