During the primary survey of a patient with severe leg trauma, the nurse observes that the patient's left pedal and posterior tibial pulses are absent, and the entire leg is swollen. Which action will the nurse take next?
Send blood to the lab for a complete blood count.
Finish the airway, breathing, circulation, disability survey.
Assess further for a cause of the decreased circulation,
Start normal saline fluid infusion with a large bore IV line.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Sending blood to the lab for a complete blood count can wait until after immediate stabilization measures are initiated.
B. Finishing the primary survey is important, but the absent pulses and swollen leg suggest a critical vascular issue that needs immediate attention.
C. Assessing further for the cause of decreased circulation is the next step to determine if immediate intervention such as surgical consultation or revascularization is needed.
D. Starting normal saline infusion may be necessary later, but determining the cause of decreased circulation takes priority to prevent potential limb loss.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Whole blood is not specifically indicated in response to smallpox exposure.
B. Antibiotics may be used for certain biological agents but are not effective against viruses like smallpox.
C. Atropine is used for treating certain types of poisoning and nerve agent exposures, not for smallpox.
D. Vaccine is crucial in response to smallpox as it can prevent infection if administered shortly after exposure or at the onset of symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While external bleeding is important to assess and manage, it is not the next immediate action after confirming an unobstructed airway.
B. Checking the patient's level of consciousness should be done after assessing the respiratory effort.
C. Palpating extremities for bilateral pulses is part of assessing circulation, which typically follows the assessment of consciousness.
D. After ensuring the patient has an unobstructed airway, the next step in the primary assessment is to observe the patient's respiratory effort. This is crucial as it provides immediate information about the adequacy of the patient's breathing and the need for supplemental oxygen or other interventions.
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