Liam, a 21-year-old university student, presents to the emergency department with a sudden onset of severe left groin pain. The pain has intensified over time and is now constant and sharp. He also reports nausea and one episode of vomiting. Liam has no known drug allergies and his past medical history is unremarkable. On examination, he has lower abdominal tenderness and swelling in the left groin. His vital signs are as follows: BP 115/65 mmHg, HR 115 bpm, T 37.1°C, RR 26 breaths/min, and SpO₂ 97% on room air. Liam is scheduled for an urgent scrotal doppler ultrasound.
Consider the patient situation: Summarise Liam’s presentation and key clinical findings.
Collect cues/information: Identify and interpret the cues provided in the case study. What additional information would you seek to clarify his clinical presentation?
Process information: Analyse the information you have. What are the potential underlying causes of Liam’s symptoms? What is most concerning?
Identify problems/issues: List two (2) nursing and clinical problems that need immediate attention.
Establish goals: What are your short-term and long-term goals for each clinical problem identified above?
Take action: Outline the nursing interventions and actions you would prioritise for Liam.
Evaluate outcomes: How would you assess whether your interventions are effective?