A patient complaining of chest pain is also having difficult…

A patient complaining of chest pain is also having difficulty breathing.  The patient states that he ate 3 hours ago, he takes aspirin and coumadin on a daily basis, and his pain started 20 minutes before 911 was called. Which of the assessment findings from the above scenario best illustrates the utilization of the OPQRST mnemonic?

A 33-year-old male patient experienced a sudden onset of sev…

A 33-year-old male patient experienced a sudden onset of severe sharp chest pain. You find the patient to have severe shortness of breath with absent breath sounds on the right, paleness, diaphoresis, and an altered mental status.  He has no peripheral pulses and has marked jugular venous distention.  He has no medical history and takes no medications.  Your first impression of this patient is:

Enroute phaseScenario:The paramedic crew is dispatched to a…

Enroute phaseScenario:The paramedic crew is dispatched to a public library for a 34-year-old male who is reported to be unconscious in the restroom. The call was received at 1217. The response time is estimated at 6 minutes. The paramedic is partnered with an EMT, and a BLS fire engine crew is also en route. The temperature is 66°F (19°C), with clear skies and light pedestrian traffic. The caller, a library staff member, reports the patient was found slumped on the floor and is “barely breathing.” No known medications or allergies have been reported. What equipment should be prioritized for this call based on the suspected overdose?

You are attempting to ventilate a potential near-drowning/su…

You are attempting to ventilate a potential near-drowning/submersion incident patient who was just removed from the river.  You observe lung compliance is poor; however, lung sounds are clear.  Which of the following is MOST likely the cause of the poor compliance?

You are treating a patient who has received an electrical sh…

You are treating a patient who has received an electrical shock from a high voltage electrical line.  The patient is unresponsive and has a third degree burn to the palm of his left hand and an extensive third degree burn to his right foot.  The power to the line has been disconnected and the scene is safe. Of the following injuries which would cause the greatest immediate concern?

You are caring for a 5-year-old male with lethargy and a fev…

You are caring for a 5-year-old male with lethargy and a fever of 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Lung sounds are clear, but the child complained of a very sore throat prior to going to bed.  During transport, you observe copious secretions.  Which of the following do you suspect?