A nurse is assisting with triaging clients after a mass casualty event. Which of the following clients should the nurse attend to first?
A client who has a splinted open fracture of the left medial malleolus.
A client who has a penetrating head injury and is experiencing seizures.
A client who has severe respiratory stridor and a deviated trachea.
A client who has a small circular partial-thickness burn of the left calf.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: An open fracture, while needing medical attention, is not immediately life-threatening. The client's condition is stable enough to wait while more critical cases are attended to.
Choice B reason: A penetrating head injury with seizures is a critical condition. However, ensuring a patent airway takes precedence in emergency situations. This client's seizures indicate serious brain injury, but the immediate threat to life, such as airway obstruction, must be prioritized.
Choice C reason: Severe respiratory stridor and a deviated trachea indicate a life-threatening airway obstruction. This client needs immediate attention to secure the airway and prevent respiratory failure. This is the highest priority because without a clear airway, the client will not survive long enough to benefit from other interventions.
Choice D reason: A partial-thickness burn, although painful and requiring treatment, is not immediately life-threatening. This client can safely wait while those with more critical needs are attended to.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A dry raised rash is not a typical finding in scleroderma. Scleroderma primarily affects the skin and connective tissues, leading to hardening and tightening of the skin.
Choice B reason: Excessive salivation is not associated with scleroderma. Clients with scleroderma may experience dry mouth (xerostomia) instead.
Choice C reason: Periorbital edema is not a characteristic feature of scleroderma. Scleroderma involves systemic sclerosis that affects the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs.
Choice D reason: The correct answer is d because hardened skin is a hallmark of scleroderma. This autoimmune disease causes the skin to become thickened, tight, and stiff due to excessive collagen deposition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Positioning the client supine may increase intracranial pressure. The client should be positioned with the head of the bed elevated to promote drainage and reduce pressure.
Choice B reason: The correct answer is b because changing the nasal drip pad as needed helps monitor for excessive drainage, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and infection following pituitary gland removal.
Choice C reason: Frequent brushing of teeth should be avoided initially to prevent disruption of the surgical site and decrease the risk of infection. Gentle oral hygiene can be encouraged instead.
Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to cough every 2 hours can increase intracranial pressure and is not recommended following pituitary gland surgery. Deep breathing exercises without coughing are more appropriate.
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