A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a preschooler who experienced a near drowning and has hypothermia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Place the child in a tub bath of tepid water.
Cover the child's head with a hat.
Administer acetaminophen every 4 hr.
Obtain a specimen for blood cultures.
The Correct Answer is B
A) Place the child in a tub bath of tepid water: While tepid water can help in some situations of hyperthermia, it is not suitable for hypothermia. A more controlled and gradual rewarming method is necessary to prevent further complications such as rewarming shock.
B) Cover the child's head with a hat: Covering the child's head with a hat is an important step in rewarming because a significant amount of body heat is lost through the head. This helps in retaining body heat and stabilizing the child’s temperature.
C) Administer acetaminophen every 4 hr: Acetaminophen is typically used for reducing fever and managing pain. It is not indicated for treating hypothermia, as it does not aid in rewarming the body or addressing the underlying hypothermic condition.
D) Obtain a specimen for blood cultures: While obtaining blood cultures might be necessary if there is a suspicion of infection, it is not a primary intervention for treating hypothermia. Immediate focus should be on rewarming and stabilizing the child.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Talk about the special features of the baby with the client: This intervention acknowledges the baby as a real person and can provide comfort to the grieving parents by validating their loss and giving them a chance to create memories, which is an important aspect of the grieving process.
B) Post a sign indicating No Visitors: This may not be appropriate as it might isolate the client further. Some parents may want the support of family and friends during this difficult time, and such a restriction should be based on the parents' wishes rather than a standard protocol.
C) Limit the amount of time the client is allowed to have the baby in her room: Allowing parents to spend as much time as they need with their baby can help them with the grieving process. Placing limits might be perceived as insensitive and could hinder the emotional healing process.
D) Tell the parents they should hold their baby: While many parents find comfort in holding their stillborn baby, it should be offered as a choice rather than a directive. It is important to respect the parents' individual coping mechanisms and provide support based on their preferences.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Keep client in semi-Fowler's position with right extremity flat: Keeping the client in a semi-Fowler's position with the extremity flat is not appropriate for managing a compound fracture. Elevating the affected limb, if possible, helps reduce swelling and pain, but the position should also consider overall stability and comfort.
B) Manage pain with oral opioids every 6 hr: Oral opioids are not the best choice for immediate pain management in an emergency setting, especially with a compound fracture. Intravenous pain medications are typically more effective for acute, severe pain in such situations and can provide quicker relief.
C) Check capillary refill hourly for the first 24 hr: Checking capillary refill is important to assess blood flow and perfusion, but hourly checks for 24 hours may not be necessary and can be overly frequent unless specific concerns arise. Monitoring should be based on clinical judgment and the client's condition.
D) Apply a compression dressing over the fracture site: Applying a compression dressing over the fracture site can help control bleeding and stabilize the area. Compound fractures involve an open wound, so controlling bleeding while minimizing the risk of infection is crucial. This intervention is essential in managing the initial trauma before more definitive surgical treatment.
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