What should you do for a patient with sudden-onset severe lower back pain and a pulsating mass?

For a patient presenting with sudden-onset severe lower back pain accompanied by a pulsating mass, the most appropriate action is to administer oxygen and prepare for immediate transport. This scenario raises significant concerns for a potential abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) or other vascular emergency, where prompt medical evaluation and intervention are crucial.

Providing oxygen is essential to ensure that the patient is adequately oxygenated, especially if there is a risk of internal bleeding or compromised circulation. The emergency response must prioritize getting the patient to a hospital swiftly, where they can receive the critical care necessary for their condition.

Immediate transport is vital, as delaying can lead to serious complications or deterioration of the patient's condition. Swift action in an emergency setting can be life-saving, particularly in vascular situations where time is of the essence.

While assessing pain severity is important, vigorous palpation could exacerbate any potential internal bleeding or discomfort. Calling in a paramedic unit for pain medication may be helpful, but it should not delay transport, which is the primary concern. Positioning the patient in a sitting position could be uncomfortable depending on their condition and may not address the urgency of the situation effectively.