An alert and oriented young male fell 5 feet from a stage, impacting a metal railing with the right side of his chest, just under his armpit. The primary assessment is negative for life threats, although he does complain of very painful breathing and has remarkable tenderness and crepitus over the 5th rib laterally in this area. Throughout care, what action is essential to perform?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Monitoring breath sounds is essential in this patient to assess for any indication of a pneumothorax or other injury to the chest or lungs. Aspirin is not typically given for pain in this scenario, and ice or a bulky dressing would not be appropriate interventions.

An Alert and Oriented Young Male Fell 5 Feet from a Stage