A client was found in a parked car with the motor running. The paramedic brought the client to the emergency department with complaints of a headache, nausea, and dizziness and the client is unable to recall their name or address. On assessment, the nurse notes the buccal mucosa is a cherry-red color. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Prepare the client for transfer to a facility with a hyperbaric chamber.
Apply oxygen via a nonrebreather mask at 15 liters.
Check the client's oxygenation level with a pulse oximeter.
Administer intravenous (IV) fluids.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Prepare the client for transfer to a facility with a hyperbaric chamber: This may be required for severe cases of carbon monoxide poisoning, but immediate intervention with high-flow oxygen is essential first.
B. Apply oxygen via a nonrebreather mask at 15 liters: Carbon monoxide poisoning requires immediate high-flow oxygen to help displace carbon monoxide from hemoglobin. This is the first step in treatment to prevent further tissue hypoxia and complications.
C. Check the client's oxygenation level with a pulse oximeter: While important, it does not address the immediate need for high-flow oxygen to treat carbon monoxide poisoning.
D. Administer intravenous (IV) fluids: IV fluids may be necessary for supportive care but are not the priority for treating carbon monoxide poisoning. The immediate need is to provide high-flow oxygen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A client who has a fractured fibula and tibia: This is incorrect. While serious, this injury does not require immediate life-saving intervention and is generally categorized as less urgent.
B. A client who has sustained a major burn to their upper torso and extremities: This is incorrect. Although severe, if the client is stable and responsive, they may be categorized as yellow (delayed) unless there are immediate life-threatening complications.
C. A client who has a sprained ankle and laceration to the lower leg: This is incorrect. These injuries are considered less severe and would typically be tagged as green (minor).
D. A client who has an open traumatic brain injury and agonal breaths: This is correct. Agonal breaths and severe head injury indicate a need for immediate life-saving intervention, so this client should receive a red tag for the highest priority.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Remove the dressing to inspect the wound: This could exacerbate the wound and increase the risk of air entering the pleural space. The priority is to manage the wound to prevent further complications.
B. Prepare to insert a central line: While a central line might be needed for severe fluid resuscitation or medication administration, addressing the immediate airway and breathing concerns is more urgent.
C. Raise the foot of the bed to a 90° angle: This position is not appropriate for managing a sucking chest wound and does not address the immediate respiratory needs.
D. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula: The client is showing signs of hypoxia and increased respiratory distress. Administering oxygen will help improve oxygenation and manage symptoms of hypoxia until further interventions can be taken.
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