A 28-year-old male was struck in the chest with a baseball bat during an altercation. He is conscious and alert and complains of severe chest pain. Your assessment reveals a large area of ecchymosis over the sternum and a rapid, irregular pulse. In addition to applying 100% oxygen, you should: A. apply an automated external defibrillator (AED) and take his blood pressure. B. prepare for immediate transport. C. determine if he has cardiac problems. D. apply bulky dressings to the sternum. {Ans: B. prepare for immediate transport.}A 30-year-old male presents with acute shortness of breath, widespread hives, and facial swelling. He denies any past medical history and takes no medications. During your assessment, you hear wheezing over all lung fields. His blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg and his heart rate is 110 beats/min. In addition to giving him 100% oxygen, the MOST important treatment for this patient is: A. epinephrine. B. an antihistamine. C. albuterol. D. a beta-antagonist. {Ans: A. epinephrine.}A rapid, chaotic rhythm that is completely disorganized is called: A. asystole. B. ventricular fibrillation. C. atrial fibrillation. D. pulseless electrical activity. {Ans: B. ventricular fibrillation.}During the primary assessment of a semiconscious 70-year-old female, you should: