For the dyspneic patient in extremis, suspect Acute Heart Failure if:
- Bibasilar rales — main finding to seek
- Jugular venous distention / hepatojugular reflux
- arrhythmias
- S3 or S4 gallops
- murmurs of significant valvular disease
- pedal edema
- Call 911. Give O2.
- Furosemide IV
- EKG if available
- Rx ASA 325 mg p.o. if age for Coronary Disease
- Have Automatic External Defibrillator available
See posting Acute Dyspnea – 1.