A 24-year-old female was an unrestrained driver of a car that struck a guardrail, causing her to sustain blunt trauma to the chest and abdomen. Vitals obtained by Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs) are pulse 120, respirations 22, blood pressure 100/58 mmHg, and SpO₂ 96%. As you transport her to the hospital, what finding indicates that the patient is deteriorating?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A drop in blood pressure to 86/50 mmHg indicates that the patient's condition is deteriorating and is in hypotensive shock. This suggests that the patient has significant internal bleeding or fluid loss, and requires immediate intervention. The other findings may also indicate potential deterioration, but a drop in blood pressure is the most concerning and urgent.

A 24-Year-Old Female Was an Unrestrained Driver of a Car