You Have Arrived on a Shooting Where a Middle-Aged Male

question 13

Multiple Choice

You have arrived on a shooting where a middle-aged male has suffered a single gunshot wound to the abdomen. As you approach the patient, you note that he is sitting up and talking with the police officer holding a blood-soaked towel over the left upper quadrant of his abdomen. Your initial action in caring for this patient is to:

• A) take manual in-line spinal stabilization.
• B) determine the need for airway management.
• C) expose the abdomen to assess the gunshot wound.
• D) obtain a pulse rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and SpO₂.

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Definitions:

Tactile Stimulation

The use of touch or physical contact to promote sensory experiences and communication.

Lethargic

A state of sluggishness, drowsiness, or indifference, often resulting from illness or fatigue.

High-pitched Breath Sounds

Refers to abnormal breath sounds characterized by a sharp, whistle-like quality, often indicating airway obstruction or constriction.

Rales

Abnormal crackling or rattling sounds heard in the lungs with a stethoscope, indicative of fluid in the alveoli due to conditions like pneumonia.