A 59-year-old male presents with sudden-onset severe lower back pain. He is conscious and alert, but very restless and diaphoretic. Your assessment reveals a pulsating mass to the left of his umbilicus. You should:.
a. vigorously palpate the abdomen to establish pain severity.
b. administer oxygen and prepare for immediate transport.
c. request a paramedic unit to give the patient pain medication.
d. place the patient in a sitting position and transport at once.