Paramedics transport a young female to the triage area following a syncopal episode at her workplace. The patient, who is 31 years of age, reports that prior to fainting, she experienced an abrupt onset of excruciating pain in the lower right side of her abdomen. Her medical background is unremarkable. Upon assessment in the resuscitation bay, her skin is remarkably pale and clammy. Evaluation of her vital parameters demonstrates a core temperature of 36.8°C (98.2°F), a markedly diminished blood pressure of 74/42 mm Hg, a pulse of 142/min, and respirations of 22/min. Her oxygen saturation remains 98% while breathing ambient air. She is conversing, though she appears confused and drowsy. Auscultation of the thorax is clear. Palpation of the abdomen elicits diffuse tenderness, significant guarding, and rebound, with the point of maximum intensity in the lower right quadrant. Which of the following is the single most urgent initial step in the management of this patient?
- Establish large-bore peripheral access and infuse an isotonic crystalloid solutionCevap
- BPerform a bedside transvaginal ultrasound to assess for free fluid
- CPage obstetrics and gynecology for an immediate surgical intervention
- DDraw peripheral blood to determine the serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin level
- EAdminister empirical broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy