A triage nurse in an emergency department is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?
Client who has a displaced femur fracture from a fall
Client who is experiencing severe vomiting and diarrhea with tachycardia
Client who is confused and has slurred speech
Client who has chemical burns covering 20% of the total body surface area
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: A client who has a displaced femur fracture from a fall is a priority client, but not the highest priority. The nurse should assess the client for signs of bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and compartment syndrome, and provide pain relief and immobilization. However, the client's condition is not as urgent or life-threatening as the other clients.
Choice B reason: A client who is experiencing severe vomiting and diarrhea with tachycardia is a priority client, but not the highest priority. The nurse should assess the client for signs of dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and shock, and provide fluid and electrolyte replacement and antiemetic medication. However, the client's condition is not as urgent or life-threatening as the other clients.
Choice C reason: A client who is confused and has slurred speech is the highest priority client, as these are signs of a possible stroke, which is a medical emergency. The nurse should assess the client for other signs of stroke, such as facial drooping, arm weakness, and vision problems, and initiate the stroke protocol, which includes calling for help, obtaining a CT scan, and administering thrombolytic therapy if indicated.
Choice D reason: A client who has chemical burns covering 20% of the total body surface area is a priority client, but not the highest priority. The nurse should assess the client for signs of airway injury, infection, and fluid loss, and provide wound care, pain relief, and fluid resuscitation. However, the client's condition is not as urgent or life-threatening as the other clients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The risk of suicide is the highest priority for the charge nurse to assess. The client has several risk factors for suicide, such as major depressive disorder, medication noncompliance, hopelessness, social isolation, and psychomotor retardation. The charge nurse should evaluate the client's suicidal ideation, intent, and plan, and implement safety measures as needed.
Choice B reason: The risk of dehydration is a lower priority than the risk of suicide. The client may be dehydrated due to decreased fluid intake, but this is not a life-threatening condition. The charge nurse should monitor the client's hydration status and encourage oral fluids as appropriate.
Choice C reason: The risk of infection is a lower priority than the risk of suicide. The client does not have any signs or symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or leukocytosis. The charge nurse should assess the client's vital signs and laboratory results as indicated, but this is not an urgent issue.
Choice D reason: The risk of seizure is a lower priority than the risk of suicide. The client does not have any history or risk factors for seizure, such as epilepsy, head trauma, or drug withdrawal. The charge nurse should observe the client for any abnormal movements or behaviors, but this is not a likely complication.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Returning unused supplies from the bedside to the unit's supply stock is an appropriate action to include in the cost-containment plan. This action prevents waste and saves money by reusing the supplies that are not contaminated or expired.
Choice B reason: Using clean gloves rather than sterile gloves for colostomy care is not an appropriate action to include in the cost-containment plan. This action compromises the quality and safety of care by increasing the risk of infection and cross-contamination. Sterile gloves are required for colostomy care to prevent introducing microorganisms into the stoma or the pouch.
Choice C reason: Storing opened bottles of normal saline in a refrigerator for up to 48 hours is not an appropriate action to include in the cost-containment plan. This action violates the infection control and medication administration policies. Opened bottles of normal saline should be discarded after 24 hours or after a single use, depending on the facility's protocol. Refrigerating the bottles does not extend their shelf life or sterility.
Choice D reason: Waiting to dispose of sharps containers until they are completely full is not an appropriate action to include in the cost-containment plan. This action poses a hazard and a liability for the staff and the clients. Sharps containers should be disposed of when they are three-quarters full or according to the manufacturer's instructions. Overfilling the containers can cause needlestick injuries or spillage of contaminated materials.
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.