A middle-aged male's arm became caught in a grinding machine, and then immediately removed by coworkers. As you approach the patient, you note him to be holding a bloody towel over a severely deformed right arm. The patient is alert and anxious, and he has a patent airway. His breathing is adequate and his left radial pulse is fast and strong. You note his skin to be cool and diaphoretic. Of the following, which would be done first for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Administering oxygen through a nonrebreather mask is the priority in this scenario. The patient's deformed arm may be a serious injury, but ensuring the patient has adequate oxygenation is crucial for his immediate survival. Beginning positive pressure ventilation may become necessary later, but it is not currently indicated. While a secondary assessment will need to be performed, it should not be the first priority in this situation. Inserting an oropharyngeal airway is unnecessary since the patient has a patent airway, and administering oxygen through a nonrebreather mask will be effective enough.

A Middle-Aged Male's Arm Became Caught in a Grinding Machine