An Elderly Male Patient with a History of COPD, Hypertension

Multiple Choice

An elderly male patient with a history of COPD, hypertension, and diabetes presents as lethargic and confused. His airway is patent, and breathing adequate. His skin is hot and radial pulse strong, regular, and bounding. Vital signs are: pulse 112, respirations 20, blood pressure 108/64, SpO₂ 94%, and temperature 102.8 F. Also noted is swelling to his right lower leg. Given these assessment findings, the EMT should suspect what condition as responsible for the patient's altered presentation?

A) Infection
B) Peripheral edema
C) Hypoxia
D) Tachycardia