Author Question: You have been called for a male worker complaining of arm pain. On scene the 31-year-old patient ... (Read 58 times)

plus1 · **on:** Jul 2, 2018

You have been called for a male worker complaining of arm pain. On scene the 31-year-old patient states that his arm was crushed between two heavy boxes. There was minimal pain at that time, but now his right forearm is swollen and painful, especially with movement. He also states that the arm and fingers feel like they are asleep. You note decreased strength to the arm and a radial pulse that is weak when compared to the left. There is no deformity to the arm and the skin is intact, although hard on palpation. Vital signs are pulse 88, respiration 18, and blood pressure 134/76 mmHg. Given these assessment findings, the EMT should be suspicious of:

A) compartment syndrome.
B) fracture.
C) hemorrhagic shock.
D) stroke.

Question 2

Which of the following most accurately describes why it is best to avoid taking a blood pressure on an arm with an AV graft in place?

A) The blood pressure cuff will compress the graft, causing damage.
B) The pressure created by the cuff is guaranteed to rupture the AV graft.
C) Restricting circulation through the graft is likely to cause clot formation, a common problem with AV grafts.
D) It is uncomfortable for a patient with an AV graft to have blood pressure taken on that arm.