An emergency department nurse triages a group of clients who were injured in a school bus crash. Which of the following clients should the nurse have the provider evaluate first?
A client who has a forehead wound that is bleeding copiously
A client who has a compound fracture of the femur and is crying in pain
A client who was unconscious at the scene and now reports diplopia and nausea
A client who has several missing teeth and a swollen, ecchymotic upper lip
The Correct Answer is C
A. A client who has a forehead wound that is bleeding copiously. Although bleeding may appear dramatic, most scalp wounds bleed heavily and can be controlled with pressure. This is not immediately life-threatening if the client is stable.
B. A client who has a compound fracture of the femur and is crying in pain. This is a serious injury with risk for blood loss and infection, but the client is alert and stable enough to express pain, suggesting less immediate neurologic risk than other clients.
C. A client who was unconscious at the scene and now reports diplopia and nausea. This client likely has a head injury with signs of increased intracranial pressure or concussion (diplopia = double vision, nausea, and prior loss of consciousness). These are neurological red flags and require immediate evaluation to prevent deterioration.
D. A client who has several missing teeth and a swollen, ecchymotic upper lip. While painful and concerning, oral trauma without airway compromise is less urgent than potential brain injury.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Place the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla: This is the correct method for taking an axillary temperature in infants, which is the recommended route due to safety and ease. The tip should be placed snugly in the center of the axilla and the infant's arm should be held firmly against their body to ensure accuracy.
B. Pull the pinna of the infant's ear forward before inserting the probe: This technique is used for otoscopic or tympanic temperature readings in children under 3, but tympanic readings are not preferred in young infants due to the small size and curvature of their ear canals, which can lead to inaccuracy.
C. Insert the oral thermometer in front of the infant's tongue: Oral temperature measurement is inappropriate for infants. They may not be able to keep the thermometer properly positioned, which increases the risk of inaccurate readings or injury.
D. Insert the probe 3.8 cm (1.5 in) into the infant's rectum: Rectal temperature measurement is not routinely recommended unless specifically indicated, and the probe should only be inserted about 1.3 cm (0.5 in) for infants to avoid rectal perforation. The option listed suggests unsafe depth.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "You will feel your baby moving within the next month." Fetal movement, or quickening, is typically felt between 16 and 20 weeks of gestation. At 9 weeks, it is too early for the client to detect fetal movement.
B. "Hormone shifts often cause vulvar itching." Vulvar itching is not a common or expected symptom of early pregnancy and may indicate an infection, such as a yeast infection, rather than a normal hormonal change.
C. "You should consume at least 3 liters of fluid each day." Adequate hydration is essential during pregnancy to support increased blood volume, amniotic fluid, and metabolic processes. A daily intake of about 3 liters of fluid helps prevent dehydration and constipation.
D. “Headaches are expected throughout pregnancy." While headaches can occur, especially in the first trimester due to hormonal changes, persistent or severe headaches may indicate complications like preeclampsia and should not be considered a normal, ongoing expectation.
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.