You are transporting a stable patient with a possible pneumothorax. The patient is receiving 100% oxygen and has an oxygen saturation of 95%. During your reassessment, you find that the patient is now confused, hypotensive, and profusely diaphoretic. What is MOST likely causing this patient's deterioration?

A. a total collapse of the affected lung
B. hidden bleeding in the thoracic cavity
C. compression of the aorta and vena cava
D. blood accumulation in the pleural space


Answer: C. compression of the aorta and vena cava

Health Professions

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