A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a client who has a compression fracture of a spinal vertebra. During transport to the facility. the client was medicated with intravenous morphine. On arrival, the neurosurgeon determined urgent surgical intervention is indicated for the fracture. Staff members have been unable to reach the client's family. Which of the following actions should the nurse anticipate the neurosurgeon taking?
Delaying the surgery until a member of the client's family is reached
Prescribing naloxone to reverse the effects of the morphine
Invoking implied consent
Asking the client to sign the surgical consent form
The Correct Answer is C
A. Delaying the surgery until a member of the client's family is reached may not be in the best interest of the client if urgent surgical intervention is indicated.
B. While naloxone can reverse the effects of opioids like morphine, it is not the primary action the neurosurgeon would take in this situation. The priority is addressing the urgent surgical need.
C. Invoking implied consent is the most appropriate action in this situation. Implied consent is assumed in emergency situations where the client is unable to provide consent, and delay would significantly jeopardize the client's health.
D. Asking the client to sign the surgical consent form would not be feasible in this situation since the client is likely not in a condition to provide informed consent due to the administration of intravenous morphine and the urgency of the surgical intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["63"]
Explanation
- To calculate the gtt/min, use the formula: gtt/min = (volume in mL x drop factor in gtt/mL) / time in min
- Substitute the given values: gtt/min = (250 mL x 15 gtt/mL) / 60 min - Simplify and round: gtt/min = 62.5 gtt/min ≈ 63 gtt/min
- The nurse should set the manual IV infusion to deliver 63 gtt/min
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Fat embolism syndrome - This is characterized by respiratory distress, altered mental status, and petechial rash. It is not associated with increasing edema.
B. Pulmonary embolism - This occurs when a blood clot (usually from the legs) travels to the lungs and can present with symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate. It is not associated with increasing edema around a fracture site.
C. Acute compartment syndrome - This is a serious condition that occurs when increased pressure within a muscle compartment impairs blood supply, leading to tissue ischemia and necrosis. Increasing edema is an early sign of compartment syndrome.
D. Osteomyelitis - This is an infection of the bone and is not typically associated with increasing edema around a fracture site. It may present with local signs of infection like warmth, redness, and tenderness.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
