Complete case scenario and answer: chapter 12 case study you and
On the basis of the scene size-up, the patient may potentially have injuries related to the deployment of the airbag and damage to the steering wheel. The patient’s general impression is pale.
The next steps in assessing this patient would be to conduct a head-to-toe assessment, including a focused physical examination to identify any potential injuries. There is a significant mechanism of injury, given the damage to the car.
There are concerns for the patient’s hemodynamic stability as evidenced by the vital sign changes, including an increased heart rate, respiratory rate, and clammy skin. The patient’s recent illness is significant because it may exacerbate the patient’s hemodynamic instability and increase the risk of infection.
The vital sign changes indicate that the patient may be in shock, specifically compensatory shock, in which the body is trying to maintain perfusion to vital organs despite decreased blood volume.
The approximate systolic BP values for each palpable pulse location are as follows: radial (80 mm Hg), carotid (60 mm Hg), and femoral (70 mm Hg).
The MOI in this scenario is significant, and the specific organs/structures susceptible to injury from this MOI include the chest, abdomen, and head.
The patient’s recent history of strep throat is significant when evaluating the level and possible progression of shock because it may exacerbate the patient’s hemodynamic instability and increase the risk of infection.
The patient is likely in compensated shock, as the body is attempting to maintain perfusion to vital organs despite decreased blood volume. This is evidenced by the increased heart and respiratory rates.
A patient in profound shock would present with severe hypotension, tachycardia, tachypnea, and altered mental status. They may also have cool, clammy skin and delayed capillary