Medical Case Study: Emergency Department Challenge

🏥 Emergency Department Case Study

📋 Patient Information

Name: Sarah Chen, 34-year-old female

Chief Complaint:"Severe chest pain and difficulty breathing for the past 2 hours"

History: No significant past medical history, non-smoker, takes oral contraceptives

🚨 Initial Presentation

Sarah arrives at the ED via ambulance. She appears anxious and is sitting upright, leaning forward. She reports sudden onset of sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breathing. She also mentions feeling lightheaded and having a rapid heartbeat.

125
Heart Rate (bpm)
95/60
Blood Pressure (mmHg)
92%
Oxygen Saturation
28
Respiratory Rate

🤔 Question 1: Initial Assessment

Based on the patient's presentation and vital signs, what is your most likely differential diagnosis?

A) Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
B) Panic Attack
C) Pulmonary Embolism
D) Pneumothorax