A nurse working in an emergency department is performing triage. To which of the following clients should the nurse assign priority?
A client who reports night sweats and fever for the last week
A client who has compound fractures of the tibia and humerus
A client who reports severe vomiting and diarrhea
A client who has soot markings around each naris following a house fire
The Correct Answer is D
a. A client who reports night sweats and fever for the last week:
Night sweats and fever can be indicative of various underlying conditions, including infections. While these symptoms may require medical attention, they do not necessarily indicate an immediately life-threatening condition compared to other options.
b. A client who has compound fractures of the tibia and humerus:
Compound fractures involve broken bones that penetrate through the skin, leading to a risk of severe bleeding, infection, and other complications. This client's injuries are significant and require immediate attention to prevent further complications and provide pain management and stabilization.
c. A client who reports severe vomiting and diarrhea:
Severe vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and other complications, especially if prolonged or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever. While this client requires prompt assessment and treatment, the urgency may not be as high as for other conditions.
d. A client who has soot markings around each naris following a house fire:
Soot markings around the nares (nostrils) suggest inhalation injury, which can lead to airway compromise, respiratory distress, and other serious complications. This client requires immediate assessment and intervention to ensure airway patency, oxygenation, and respiratory support.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Places food on the stronger side of the client’s mouth: Placing food on the stronger side of the mouth helps the client chew and swallow more effectively and safely. This compensates for weakness on one side, reducing the risk of choking and aspiration.
B. Positions the client at a 30-degree angle prior to eating:A 30-degree angle is insufficient to reduce the risk of aspiration in clients with dysphagia. The client should be positioned in an upright sitting position (90 degrees) to facilitate safer swallowing and reduce the risk of choking or aspirating food.
C. Instructs the client to hyperextend their neck when swallowing:Hyperextending the neck (tilting the head back) can actually increase the risk of aspiration by opening the airway, making it easier for food or liquids to enter the lungs. The client should be encouraged to tuck the chin slightly when swallowing to protect the airway.
D. Has the client sit upright for 20 minutes following meals: While sitting upright after meals is beneficial for preventing reflux and aspiration, 20 minutes is not sufficient. The client should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after meals to further reduce the risk of aspiration.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Document an objective description of the situation:
It is important to start by documenting the observed behavior objectively. This documentation can serve as a factual record of the incident.
b. Schedule a formal meeting with the LPN within 48 hours:
While addressing the issue promptly is important, scheduling a formal meeting should come after documenting the situation. The initial step is to gather information and document observations.
c. Interview clients about the nurse’s actions:
Interviewing clients may be necessary later in the investigation process, but the immediate action should be to document the observed behavior and then proceed with a more formal investigation if needed.
d. Check the unit narcotic records for discrepancies:
The issue at hand appears to be related to alcohol use rather than narcotics. While discrepancies in narcotic records might be a concern, it may not be the most relevant action based on the situation described.
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