Question

A 71-year-old man with a history of hypertension and vascular disease presents with tearing abdominal pain. His blood pressure is 80/60 mm Hg, his heart rate is 120 beats/min, and his respirations are 28 breaths/min. Your assessment reveals that his abdomen is rigid and distended. Considering his medical history and vital signs, you should be MOST suspicious for a(n):

A) aortic aneurysm.
B) hemorrhagic stroke.
C) acute myocardial infarction.
D) infarction of the large intestine.

Answer 1

The most suspicious diagnosis is aortic aneurysm.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the patient's medical history of hypertension and vascular disease, along with the presenting symptoms of tearing abdominal pain, low blood pressure, tachycardia, and abdominal rigidity and distention, the most suspicious diagnosis would be aortic aneurysm. Aortic aneurysm is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the weakening and bulging of the aorta, which can lead to abdominal pain and rupture, causing hypovolemic shock and potentially fatal hemorrhage.