An unrestrained 32-year-old female motorist hit a utility pole head on at 45 mph. The car sustained extensive damage. She has an open airway, breathing poorly at 32 breaths per minute, and is responsive to painful stimuli. The radial pulse is rapid and weak, and her skin is cool and cyanotic. Breath sounds are decreased on the right side. Emergency Medical Responders are maintaining manual in-line stabilization. Your next action would be to:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Given the patient's condition—breathing poorly, rapid and weak pulse, cool and cyanotic skin, and decreased breath sounds on one side—starting positive pressure ventilation is the immediate next step to address her inadequate ventilation and potential hypoxia.

An Unrestrained 32-Year-Old Female Motorist Hit a Utility Pole Head