You are called to a long-term care facility for a patient with abdominal pain. On location, you find an 81-year-old female who staff said complained of abdominal pain and then began to vomit several times. The patient has advanced dementia and is confused and lethargic, which staff says is her normal status. Assessment reveals her to be confused, breathing 22 times a minute with a pulse rate of 88 beats per minute. Her blood pressure is 118/68 mmHg and she has an SpO₂ of 97 percent on room air. Staff states that her temperature is 100.8°F and she did not get her medication for dementia today. When treating and transporting this patient, which of the following represents the EMT's greatest concern?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The greatest concern for the EMT when treating and transporting this patient is the risk for vomiting, as it can lead to aspiration, which is a significant and immediate threat to the patient's airway and breathing.

You Are Called to a Long-Term Care Facility for a Patient