A patient has experienced return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after cardiac arrest. The healthcare team is conducting a secondary assessment to determine the possible cause of the patient's cardiac arrest. The history reveals that before the arrest, the patient exhibited jugular venous distension, cyanosis, apnea and hyperresonance on percussion. The patient was also difficult to ventilate during the response. The team would most likely suspect which condition as the cause?
Select the correct answer to this question.
A. Tension pneumothorax
B. Cardiac tamponade
C. Acidosis
D. Hypothermia
Correct answer is option A. Tension pneumothorax. Explanation: Prearrest signs of tension pneumothorax in the advanced stage include jugular venous distension, cyanosis, apnea and hyperresonance on percussion. Difficulty ventilating the patient may also be a sign of tension pneumothorax.
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