What would be your initial action?

Your patient is a 32-year-old male who was complaining of a severe, crushing feeling in the center of his chest and shortness of breath that began while he was mowing his lawn 45 minutes prior to your arrival. He is now only responding to painful stimuli. Presently, his minute ventilation is still adequate, his pulse oximeter reads 95% on room air, and you find his skin to be pale, cool, and diaphoretic.

What would be your initial action?
A . 12- 15 liters oxygen by nonrebreather.
B . 325 mg aspirin.
C . 4-6 liters oxygen by nasal cannula.
D . Sublingual nitroglycerin.

View Answer

Answer: A

Explanation:

High flow oxygen would be indicated with extreme shortness of breath during the initial assessment, so long as ventilations are adequate. If thepatientis breathing inadequately then positive pressure ventilation with oxygen should be immediately instituted.