Case study: Adult with tearing chest and back pain. A 62-year-old suddenly develops excruciating chest pain described as tearing and radiating between the shoulder blades. Blood pressure is markedly elevated. Which finding in this case is the highest priority for the nurse to address first?

Question

Accepted Answer

B. possible aortic dissection — In this case, the highest-priority finding is possible aortic dissection because it most directly threatens safety or signals clinical deterioration.

Answer

A. mild nausea after breakfast

Answer

C. history of heartburn

Answer

D. fear about missing work