An unrestrained female driver hit a utility pole with her vehicle at a moderate rate of speed. During the impact, she struck the steering wheel with her chest. The patient's airway is open, and she states that it is painful to breathe. Her pulse is moderate in strength, irregular, and tachycardic. Breath sounds are equal bilaterally, and no jugular venous distention is 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 the assessment findings, the EMT should be suspicious of which condition?
A) Pneumothorax
B) Traumatic asphyxia
C) Tension pneumothorax
D) Cardiac contusion
D) Cardiac contusion
Health Professions
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