Question of the day #5 · NREMT Master Academy

Question of the day #5

A 68-year-old female is found sitting in a recliner, complaining of "crushing" chest pain and extreme weakness. She appears pale, cool, and clammy. You note distended neck veins (JVD) and hear crackles (rales) in the lower lobes of both lungs upon auscultation.

Vital Signs:

• Heart Rate: 118 bpm, weak and thready

• Blood Pressure: 78/52 mmHg

• Respirations: 26 breaths/min and labored

• SpO_2: 89% on room air

Based on this clinical presentation, what is the most likely underlying cause of her hypotension?

A) Massive Pulmonary Embolism (Obstructive Shock)

B) Left Ventricular Failure (Cardiogenic Shock)

C) Systemic Vasodilation (Anaphylactic Shock)

D) Internal Hemorrhage (Hypovolemic Shock)

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