Question

You have just completed your primary assessment of a 48-year-old man with crushing chest pain and difficulty breathing. The patient has been given 324 mg of aspirin and is receiving supplemental oxygen. As you begin your secondary assessment, you note that his mental status has deteriorated and he is now bradycardic. You should _________.

1) continue with your secondary assessment
2) prepare the patient for immediate transport
3) insert a nasal airway and assist his breathing
4) request an ALS unit to respond to the scene

Answer 1

In this scenario, the appropriate action is to prepare the patient for immediate transport.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate action to take in this scenario is to prepare the patient for immediate transport.

The deterioration of the patient's mental status and the presence of bradycardia indicate a worsening condition that requires urgent medical attention. Continuing with the secondary assessment may delay necessary treatment and potentially worsen the patient's outcome.

By preparing the patient for immediate transport, the healthcare team can ensure that the patient receives timely and specialized care at a medical facility, where further evaluation and intervention can be provided.