TCRN Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep for Your Test

When dealing with a hypotensive patient who presents with a widened mediastinum on a chest X-ray, the most critical priority is to address potential hemorrhagic shock. The widened mediastinum can indicate serious conditions such as thoracic aortic injury or significant vascular trauma, both of which can lead to rapid blood loss and cardiovascular instability.

In this context, the rapid transfuser is pivotal because it allows for the swift administration of IV fluids or blood products, which is essential for restoring hemodynamic stability in a hypotensive patient. Administering fluids quickly can help to counteract the shock state and improve perfusion to vital organs, ultimately increasing the patient's chance of survival.

While other options like chest tubes, pericardiocentesis kits, and arterial lines are important tools in managing traumatic injuries, they primarily focus on addressing specific complications or monitoring blood pressure rather than directly reversing hypovolemic shock. The rapid transfuser's role in immediately addressing the hypovolemia highlights its priority in this critical scenario.