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Multiple Choice

A patient presents with abdominal tenderness, back pain, a blood pressure of 103/88 and a heart rate of 132 with respirations 20. What is the most likely issue and the immediate care?

The key idea is that abdominal tenderness with back pain, plus a fast heart rate and lower–normal blood pressure, points to internal bleeding causing hypovolemic shock. The priority is to support oxygen delivery and keep the patient warm while preparing for rapid transport. Providing high-flow oxygen helps maximize tissue oxygenation, and a warm blanket reduces heat loss that can worsen shock. Position the patient comfortably to avoid aggravating any injuries and to maintain perfusion during transport. Interventions like nitroglycerin would lower blood pressure and worsen perfusion in this scenario, and simple antacids don’t address the urgent issue of internal bleeding. While IV fluids may be used as part of ongoing care, the immediate, most appropriate actions focus on oxygen, warmth, and a stable, comfortable position to buy time before definitive care.

The key idea is that abdominal tenderness with back pain, plus a fast heart rate and lower–normal blood pressure, points to internal bleeding causing hypovolemic shock. The priority is to support oxygen delivery and keep the patient warm while preparing for rapid transport. Providing high-flow oxygen helps maximize tissue oxygenation, and a warm blanket reduces heat loss that can worsen shock. Position the patient comfortably to avoid aggravating any injuries and to maintain perfusion during transport. Interventions like nitroglycerin would lower blood pressure and worsen perfusion in this scenario, and simple antacids don’t address the urgent issue of internal bleeding. While IV fluids may be used as part of ongoing care, the immediate, most appropriate actions focus on oxygen, warmth, and a stable, comfortable position to buy time before definitive care.