Patient Overview: A 25-year-old male was involved in a high-…
Patient Overview: A 25-year-old male was involved in a high-speed motor vehicle accident. The patient was found lying supine outside the vehicle, complaining of severe chest pain and difficulty breathing. There’s visible bruising on the left chest, with diminished breath sounds on the left side and signs of shock. Presentation and Findings: The patient is pale, diaphoretic, and tachypneic. Respiratory rate: 28 breaths per minute. Pulse: 120 bpm, weak and thready. Blood pressure: 90/60 mmHg. Diminished breath sounds on the left side; dullness to percussion on the left side. Jugular veins are not distended. On Scene Phase Which intervention should be prioritized given the findings?