A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a patient with a deep laceration on his left lower forearm. After observing standard precautions, which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Apply a tourniquet just below the elbow.
Elevate the limb and apply ice.
Clean the wound.
Apply pressure above the wound.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Applying a tourniquet just below the elbow is not recommended as the first line of action for a deep laceration unless there is life-threatening hemorrhaging that cannot be controlled by direct pressure. Tourniquets are used as a last resort because they can cause tissue damage.
Choice B reason: Elevating the limb and applying ice can help reduce bleeding and swelling. Elevation uses gravity to help reduce blood flow to the injury, and the cold from the ice constricts blood vessels, further helping to control bleeding and reduce swelling.
Choice C reason: Cleaning the wound is important, but it should not be the first action taken. The initial focus should be on stopping the bleeding. Once bleeding is controlled, the wound can be cleaned to prevent infection.
Choice D reason: Applying pressure directly to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage is the first step in controlling bleeding. However, the question specifies applying pressure above the wound, which would not be effective in controlling bleeding from the wound itself.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Offering the bedpan every 2 hours is not specifically related to preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and may not be necessary unless the client has other needs that require frequent toileting.
Choice B reason: Cleansing the perineum from front to back is a standard practice to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anal area to the urethra, which can reduce the risk of UTIs.
Choice C reason: Encouraging fluid intake is crucial for clients with a spinal cord injury because it helps to flush out the urinary tract, preventing the buildup of bacteria that can cause UTIs.
Choice D reason: An indwelling urinary catheter may be necessary for a client with a T4 spinal cord injury who cannot effectively empty the bladder, but it should be used with caution as it can also increase the risk of UTIs. The decision to use an indwelling catheter should be based on a thorough assessment and consideration of all other options.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Neurological checks are essential after spinal surgery to monitor for any changes or deterioration in the patient's neurological status. The frequency of these checks can vary based on the patient's condition, but a common standard is to perform them every 4 hours or sooner. However, in some cases, especially immediately post operation, checks may be required more frequently, such as every 2 hours, to ensure any complications are identified and managed promptly.
Choice B reason: While mobilization is an important aspect of postsurgical care to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis, positioning a patient in a chair every 2 hours may not be appropriate immediately following spinal surgery. The patient's mobility and pain level must be assessed, and activities should be gradually increased as tolerated.
Choice C reason: Inspecting the spinal dressing is important to identify signs of infection or complications. However, clear drainage is not typically expected and could indicate cerebrospinal fluid leakage, which requires immediate medical attention.
Choice D reason: The term "criminal checks" is not relevant to nursing care and seems to be a typographical error. The nurse's focus should be on clinical assessments and interventions related to the patient's health status.
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