header bg

Scan QR code or get instant email to install app

Question:

You are treating a 49-year-old patient who complains of an intense pain between his shoulder blades radiating to his lower back. Pain began 10 minutes prior to your arrival while he was eating and has been constant. He rates the pain as a 10 out of 10. Pain is described as a sharp, tearing pain. He has no significant past medical history. Blood pressure is 130/76 mm Hg in the right arm and 78/48 mm Hg in the left arm. Radial pulse in his right arm is 98 beats per minute and regular, and respiratory rate is 20 per minute and non-labored. What condition would you most likely suspect?

A Aortic dissection
explanation

Differing blood pressures in each arm, as well as the description of a sharp, tearing pain between the shoulder blades, may indicate an aortic dissection. This is a definite medical emergency that warrants immediate transport to the emergency department.

Related Information

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*