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?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms, including intense pain with breathing, rapid and shallow breathing, and a SpO₂ at 90%, indicate hypoxia, which is a condition where there is insufficient oxygen reaching the tissues.

A Confused 62-Year-Old Female Fell at Home, Hitting the Side