Question

You are evaluating a 58-year-old man with chest discomfort. His blood pressure is 92/50 mm Hg, his breathing rate is 14, and his pulse oximetry reading is 97%. Heart rate is 92. Which assessment step is most important now?

a) Administer nitroglycerin
b) Obtain a 12-lead ECG
c) Provide supplemental oxygen
d) Check for signs of shock

Answer 1

The most important assessment step for a 58-year-old man with chest discomfort, low blood pressure, and a heart rate of 92 is to check for signs of shock.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important assessment step for a 58-year-old man with chest discomfort, low blood pressure, and a heart rate of 92 is to d) Check for signs of shock.

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can be a sign of shock, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. The symptoms of shock may include rapid heartbeat, weak pulse, pale or clammy skin, confusion, and shortness of breath.

Administering nitroglycerin, obtaining a 12-lead ECG, and providing supplemental oxygen may also be important in the evaluation and treatment of this patient, but the most immediate concern should be to check for signs of shock.