Which client statement or behavior is most likely associated with their current condition?

Choice A rationale

The patient’s history indicates that she had difficulty breathing during a hike. This event led her to the emergency department. Difficulty breathing during physical activity such as hiking can be a symptom of an asthma exacerbation.

Choice B rationale

While severe allergic reactions can cause difficulty breathing, the patient’s history does not indicate that she experienced an allergic reaction prior to her emergency department visit.

Choice C rationale

Panic attacks can cause symptoms such as rapid heart rate, sweating, and shortness of breath. However, the patient’s history does not indicate that she had a panic attack prior to her emergency department visit.

Choice D rationale

Fainting, or loss of consciousness, can be caused by various conditions, including dehydration, low blood sugar, and heart problems. However, the patient’s history does not indicate that she fainted prior to her emergency department visit.

Choice A rationale

A rotator cuff injury could be a possibility given the patient’s age and the nature of the fall. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, and injuries to this area are common in falls where the shoulder takes the impact.

Choice B rationale

A humeral fracture could also be a possibility. The humerus is the bone in the upper arm, and it can be fractured in falls, especially in older adults who may have weaker bones.

Choice C rationale

A concussion could be a possibility given that the patient hit his head on the wall. Symptoms of a concussion can include nausea and fatigue, which the patient is experiencing.

Choice D rationale

A knee sprain could be a possibility given that the patient is experiencing pain in his right knee. Sprains occur when the ligaments, which are the bands of tissue that hold bones together, are stretched or torn.