The patient presents to the ED with sudden,severe sharp chest discomfort,radiating to the back and down both arms,as well as numbness in the left arm.While taking the patient's vital signs,the nurse notices a 30-point discrepancy in systolic blood pressure between the right and left arm.Based on these findings,the nurse should:
A) contact the physician and report the cardiac enzyme results.
B) contact the physician and prepare the patient for thrombolytic therapy.
C) contact the physician immediately and begin prepping the patient for surgery.
D) give the patient aspirin and heparin.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

These symptoms indicate the possibility of acute aortic dissection.Symptoms often mimic those of AMI or pulmonary embolism.Aortic dissection is a surgical emergency.Signs and symptoms include chest pain and arm paresthesia.

The Patient Presents to the ED with Sudden,severe Sharp Chest