An 80-year-old woman has suddenly became weak and short of breath while working around her house. Even though she sat down to rest, the symptoms have not gotten better. You should suspect:

A patient has called 911 for chest pain that he describes as "tearing" and radiating between his shoulders. His airway is patent, breathing accelerated but adequate, and radial pulse intact. Your partner reports the following vital signs: pulse 120, respirations 22, blood pressure 88/64, and SpO2 at 96% on room air. At this time, you should:

A) assist the patient with his nitroglycerin. B) provide the patient with 325 mg of aspirin. C) encourage the patient to take an antacid such as Maalox. D) recheck the blood pressure in the other arm.

A 43-year-old man is experiencing a severe nosebleed. His blood pressure is 190/110 mm Hg and his heart rate is 90 beats/min and bounding. Preferred treatment for this patient includes:

A. placing a rolled 4² × 4² dressing between his lower lip and gum. B. pinching the patient's nostrils and having him lean forward. C. packing both nostrils with gauze pads until the bleeding stops. D. having the patient pinch his own nostrils and then lie supine.