A 74-year-old male with a history of chronic emphysema is complaining of sudden onset of shortness of breath. He appears to be in acute respiratory distress. Physical exam of the anterior chest wall reveals crepitus. Based on the patient's history and physical exam, you would suspect which of the following conditions?
a. Spontaneous pneumothorax
b. Congestive heart failure
c. Acute bronchitis
d. Carbon monoxide poisoning
Question 2
You arrive on scene where an unresponsive patient is being treated. The OEC Technician on scene tells you that she thinks the patient may have had a stroke. You suggest to the patroller to first:
a. place a nasal airway and suction the patient.
b. assist ventilations with a BVM.
c. apply a nonrebreather mask and provide oxygen.
d. determine if a pulse is present.