A nurse in an emergency department is admitting clients following an earthquake. The emergency disaster plan has been implemented due to the anticipated arrival of a large number of casualties. Which of the following clients should the nurse recommend the provider evaluate first?
A client who has a penetrating head injury and respiratory rate of 4/min.
A client who has a comminuted fracture of the femur.
A client who has a 15.2-cm (6-in) laceration to the scalp with clotted blood visible.
A client who has a sucking chest wound.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
A client who has a penetrating head injury and a respiratory rate of 4/min requires immediate attention due to the critical nature of the head injury and the dangerously low respiratory rate. However, in an emergency situation like this, the priority would be a condition that could be rapidly fatal if not addressed promptly.
Choice B rationale:
A client with a comminuted fracture of the femur has a serious injury that requires assessment and treatment, but it is not an immediately life-threatening condition. It falls lower in the priority compared to conditions that directly impact respiratory and cardiovascular function.
Choice C rationale:
A client with a 15.2-cm laceration to the scalp with clotted blood visible also requires attention, but it is not as time-sensitive as a life-threatening condition. Controlling bleeding and cleaning the wound can be addressed after addressing more critical cases.
Choice D rationale:
Correct. A client with a sucking chest wound has a high risk of tension pneumothorax, a condition where air accumulates in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse and compromised circulation. This condition can be rapidly fatal. Immediate intervention is required to seal the wound and prevent further air from entering the pleural space.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Providing information about other birth control methods is appropriate after the nurse explores the client's uncertainty, as it ensures the client's decision-making process is supported by understanding all available options.
Choice B rationale: While involving a partner can be helpful, the nurse’s primary responsibility is to the client’s autonomy; asking this first may shift the focus away from the client’s personal concerns.
Choice C rationale: Emphasizing only the benefits is non-therapeutic and biased. The nurse must remain neutral and allow the client to weigh both the benefits and risks of a permanent procedure.
Choice D rationale: Active listening and exploring the client's feelings are the first steps in the nursing process to address uncertainty. This allows the client to clarify their values and reach an informed decision.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A: Compare data from clients' records regarding skin integrity with established criteria.
Choice A rationale:
Comparing data from clients' records regarding skin integrity with established criteria (Choice A) is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of the plan to decrease pressure injuries. This action helps identify trends, improvements, or areas that still need attention.
Choice B rationale:
Measuring staff attendance at an educational program on managing pressure injuries (Choice B) assesses staff participation but does not directly evaluate the plan's impact on pressure injury rates. Attendance does not necessarily translate to improved implementation.
Choice C rationale:
Interviewing clients regarding their satisfaction with their care (Choice C) focuses on client satisfaction rather than evaluating the effectiveness of the plan in reducing pressure injuries. While satisfaction is important, it does not directly measure the plan's success.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring use of supplies used to prevent pressure injuries (Choice D) provides information on resource utilization but does not provide comprehensive data on the plan's effectiveness. It does not account for the effectiveness of staff adherence to pressure injury prevention protocols.
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