An unrestrained female driver hit a utility pole at a moderate rate of speed and struck the steering wheel with her chest. Her airway is open, and she states that it is painful to breathe. Her pulse is moderate in strength and irregular. Breath sounds are equal bilaterally, and there is no jugular venous distention noted. Assessment of her chest reveals bruising and instability to the sternum

When asked, she denies any past medical history. Based on this mechanism and assessment findings, the EMT should be suspicious for what condition?

A) Pneumothorax
B) Traumatic asphyxia
C) Tension pneumothorax
D) Cardiac contusion

D