What began as a stroke alert turned into a different kind of emergency: aortic dissection. Today's patient case study follows a series of clinical decisions that saved an elderly man from a fatal misdiagnosis. Christian Guzman APRN walks us through the case — from the patient’s misleading symptoms to the diagnostic tests that showed something more was going on.

We dive into the anatomy, pathophysiology, and clinical signs of aortic dissection, including how the location of tears changes the presentation of symptoms. From emergency treatment strategies to post-op care, you’ll learn how to navigate the nuances of managing this complex condition!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Patient’s initial presentation
• Symptoms of aortic dissection and diagnostic imaging
• Bilateral blood pressure and perfusion checks
• Aortic dissection vs. aortic aneurysm
• Why symptoms vary so widely
• Bedside assessment and monitoring
• Treatment priorities and pain management
• Post-op care and long-term complications

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