You are caring for a man who had his arm mangled by a piece of farm equipment. Bleeding has been controlled with a tourniquet; however, the patient is hypotensive and tachycardic. He has an extensive cardiac history and takes Pradaxa. There is a community hospital 18 minutes away by ground, a level III trauma center 40 minutes away by ground, and a level I trauma center 30 minutes away by air. You should:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's hypotension and tachycardia suggest he may be in shock, possibly from internal bleeding. Given his extensive cardiac history and use of Pradaxa, which is a blood thinner, he may need urgent surgical intervention. Therefore, the best option would be to call for air transport to the level I trauma center. The shorter transport time by air and the higher level of care at the level I trauma center would provide the patient with the best chance of survival.

You Are Caring for a Man Who Had His Arm