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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A , B, C, B ,
No explanation
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Albuterol is used for bronchodilation and is not indicated for Sandra's presentation.
B. She needs arterial blood gas analysis to monitor her acid-base status, as she has a low pH indicating acidosis.
C. Sandra is a patient who has signs and symptoms of peritonsillar abscess, a complication of recurrent tonsillitis. She needs urgent treatment to prevent airway obstruction and sepsis.
D. Given Sandra's history of tonsillitis and elevated WBC count, initiating antibiotics targeting streptococcal infection is crucial.
E. While a chest X-ray may be indicated for respiratory symptoms, it's not the most immediate action needed for Sandra's management.
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