Hafnarstræti 18, 600 Akureyri, third floor apartment 3B. A four-story concrete building built in 1965. Main entrance is accessible by a coded door, code is 2468. There is an elevator and a central staircase. Street parking is available. The building has a basic fire alarm system. Current conditions: 8°C, overcast, moderate wind. GPS coordinates: 65.6825° N, 18.0915° W. Nearest landmark: Akureyri Art Museum.
62-year-old male, experiencing severe shortness of breath. Primary symptoms: Difficulty breathing, rapid and shallow respirations, wheezing, and cyanosis around the lips. Patient is conscious but anxious. Secondary symptoms: Chest tightness, productive cough with clear sputum. Patient is sitting upright, leaning forward. Medical history: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diagnosed 5 years ago, history of smoking. Medications: Salbutamol inhaler (2 puffs as needed), Fluticasone/Salmeterol inhaler (1 puff twice daily), Theophylline 200mg daily. Allergies: None known. Last meal was a light lunch at 13:00.
Timeline: 1430 hours: Patient began experiencing increased shortness of breath. 1445 hours: Symptoms worsened rapidly, with increased wheezing and chest tightness. 1450 hours: Patient used his Salbutamol inhaler, with minimal relief. 1455 hours: Patient called his son, Jónas, for help. 1500 hours: Jónas arrived and called emergency services. 1502 hours: Current time, patient continues to struggle with breathing. Prior Events: Patient had a mild respiratory infection two weeks ago, treated with rest and over-the-counter medication. Patient reports increased symptoms over the past few days. Last medical check-up was 6 months ago for a routine COPD follow-up. Patient lives alone, son lives nearby.
Initial Impression: Acute Exacerbation of COPD Justification for F2 Classification: - Significant respiratory distress with rapid onset - Cyanosis and wheezing suggest severe respiratory compromise - Time-sensitive condition requiring immediate intervention Differential Diagnoses: 1. Acute Exacerbation of COPD (high probability) 2. Pneumonia (possible, but less likely given the chronic history) 3. Pulmonary Embolism (less likely, no recent immobilization or surgery) 4. Acute Bronchitis (less likely given the chronic history) 5. Acute Heart Failure (less likely given the lack of other symptoms) Required Actions: - Dispatch of ground EMS with ALS capabilities - Oxygen administration - Bronchodilator therapy - Continuous monitoring of vital signs - Preparation for transport to the nearest hospital with respiratory support