A 66-year-old female patient has been struck by a car. Your assessment reveals gurgling respirations, rapid breathing, and cool, diaphoretic skin. You also observe bruising to the chest and abdomen. Which one of the following should you do immediately?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient has gurgling respirations, indicating an obstruction in the airway. Suctioning the airway can help to remove the obstruction and improve breathing. Administering high-concentration oxygen should also be done as soon as possible, but suctioning takes priority in this case. Evaluating for signs of shock and determining blood pressure are important steps, but addressing the airway obstruction should be done first.

A 66-Year-Old Female Patient Has Been Struck by a Car