A nurse is assisting with triaging clients following an explosion. Which of the following clients should the nurse identify as the highest priority?
A conscious adult client who has second-degree burns on both lower legs; respiratory rate is > 30/min
A conscious adult client wearing a medic-alert diabetic bracelet, client reports feeling clammy and shaky.
An unconscious adult client who has a large head wound with gray matter exposed; absent respirations
An unconscious 6-month-old infant with no respirations, no visible injuries
The Correct Answer is A
A. In mass casualty triage, priority is given to clients who are salvageable with immediate intervention. This client is conscious (airway is intact) but has respiratory distress (RR > 30/min), suggesting potential inhalation injury or early shock. Prompt treatment can be life-saving.
B. This client is conscious but has symptoms potentially related to hypoglycemia rather than life-threatening injuries.
C. Unconscious adult with large head wound and exposed gray matter, absent respirations is unsalvageable; in triage terms, this client would be black tag (expectant). Immediate care will not change survival.
D. Unconscious 6-month-old infant with no respirations, no visible injuries is also considered unsalvageable without immediate resuscitation; triage prioritizes those with highest likelihood of survival.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Applying calamine lotion can provide relief from itching but does not address potential complications such as swelling or allergic reactions.
B. Applying ice packs can help reduce swelling and pain, but it is not the priority action in this scenario.
C. Attempting to remove the patient's rings is crucial to prevent complications such as restricted blood flow due to swelling, which can be exacerbated by bee stings. However, this should be done after administering diphenhydramine.
D. The nurse should first administer diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 50 mg PO to counteract the effects of the bee venom and reduce the risk of anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Humidifying the client's room helps to maintain adequate moisture levels in the air. However, it is not specifically related to low WBC counts.
B. Cleaning dentures in a denture cup and serving cooked fruit with meals are good practices for hygiene and dietary considerations but do not directly address infection control.
C. Serving cooked fruit with meals can help minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
D. Replacing the water in flower vases with fresh water daily is important for preventing bacterial growth but is not as directly beneficial for infection prevention in this context.
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