Question

You should be MOST suspicious that your patient has experienced a cardiac tamponade if he or she presents with ____.

1) severe chest pain
2) rapid breathing
3) low blood pressure
4) irregular heartbeat

Answer 1

Cardiac tamponade is a condition where excess fluid accumulates in the pericardial cavity, putting pressure on the heart. The symptoms include severe chest pain, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cardiac tamponade is a condition where excess fluid, usually blood, accumulates within the pericardial cavity and puts pressure on the heart, preventing it from fully relaxing and filling with blood. The symptoms of cardiac tamponade include severe chest pain, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat. However, it is most suspicious if a patient presents with low blood pressure.