You have been called to a long-term care facility for a 77-year-old female who was found unresponsive in her wheelchair by staff. The nurse reports that the patient complained of a headache earlier in the day and was given 600 mg of Motrin. Your assessment shows her to be unresponsive with a patent airway, slow and irregular respirations, and a weak radial pulse. Her lips are cyanotic and your partner reports the following vital signs: pulse 44, respirations 6, and blood pressure 228/116 mmHg. Which one of the following should you do next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's slow and irregular respirations, cyanotic lips, and low oxygen saturation (which can be assumed given the patient's presentation) indicate respiratory failure. Positive pressure ventilation should be initiated immediately to improve oxygenation and support the patient's breathing. Checking the blood glucose level or performing a stroke screen can be done later, after the patient's airway and breathing are stabilized. The patient's high blood pressure may be addressed later but is not the priority at this time.

You Have Been Called to a Long-Term Care Facility for a 77-Year-Old