John, a 35-year-old male involved in a motor vehicle accident, presents with a contusion across his chest from the seatbelt. Which two combined assessments should the nurse prioritize to detect potential complications?
Assess for sternal tenderness and check for skin abrasions.
Assess for sternal tenderness and measure oxygen saturation levels.
Measure blood pressure and observe for signs of localized infection
Measure oxygen saturation levels and auscultate lung sounds
The Correct Answer is D
A. While assessing sternal tenderness is relevant, skin abrasions may not directly indicate complications from the chest contusion.
B. Sternal tenderness can indicate underlying injuries but is not the priority compared to auscultation of the lung zones, and measuring oxygen saturation levels is crucial for assessing respiratory function and detecting potential complications such as respiratory distress or hypoxemia.
C. Blood pressure measurement and observation for signs of localized infection are important assessments but may not be directly related to complications from a chest contusion.
D. This is because a contusion across the chest from the seatbelt can cause rib fractures, pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pulmonary contusion, which can impair gas exchange and oxygenation. Measuring oxygen saturation levels and auscultating lung sounds can help detect these complications and guide appropriate interventions.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Multiple rib fractures are unlikely to enhance gas diffusion; instead, they can impair ventilation by reducing the ability of the chest wall to expand.
B. Multiple rib fractures can indeed increase the workload of the diaphragm as it tries to compensate for the decreased ability of the chest wall to expand during breathing.
C. Multiple rib fractures can restrict chest wall movement, leading to compromised ventilation efficiency.
D. Multiple rib fractures wouldn't directly improve pulmonary blood supply; they can lead to pain and impaired lung function.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. There's no indication of a bacterial infection, so antibiotics are not warranted.
B. A biopsy may be considered if the diagnosis is uncertain, but it's not the first-line action.
C. Tretinoin is typically used for conditions like acne or photoaging, not for eczematous lesions.
D. Corticosteroid creams are commonly used to reduce inflammation and itching associated with eczema, making this the most appropriate action.
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