The nurse in the emergency department is caring for a client with multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. The client lost consciousness. has an open fracture of the left tibia, and active bleeding at the fracture site. What is the priority nursing action?
Prepare for immediate surgery to repair the open fracture
Assess for pulses in the upper and lower extremities
Place a sterile pressure dressing on the open fracture
Maintain C-spine immobilization
The Correct Answer is D
A. Prepare for immediate surgery to repair the open fracture
Surgery may be necessary, but it is not the immediate priority. The focus should be on stabilizing the client and preventing further injury.
B. Assess for pulses in the upper and lower extremities
Assessing circulation is important but is not the most immediate life-saving intervention. First, the client must be stabilized and bleeding controlled.
C. Place a sterile pressure dressing on the open fracture
While controlling bleeding is important, spinal immobilization takes precedence in trauma cases to prevent potential spinal cord injury.
D. Maintain C-spine immobilization
In a trauma patient with loss of consciousness, cervical spine injury must be assumed. Immobilization prevents further damage while other interventions are performed.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Provide the daughter and client with nutritional counseling.
While nutrition is important, assessing for abuse is the priority.
B. Interview the client alone and assess for abuse.
The client’s reluctance and daughter’s interruptions suggest potential elder abuse.
C. Take the history from the daughter due to the client’s confusion.
The client should be interviewed alone first.
D. Request a psychiatric evaluation.
Confusion can result from dehydration or trauma, not necessarily a psychiatric disorder.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Reassure the client that information they share with the nurse is confidential
Establishing trust and confidentiality is essential in a health interview, especially for clients with neurological deficits who may feel vulnerable.
B. Instruct that complementary therapies are rarely helpful
This statement is not evidence-based and may dismiss patient preferences. Some complementary therapies, such as physical therapy or mindfulness, can be helpful in neurological conditions.
C. Assess physical appearance and gait
Observing physical appearance and gait provides important clues about neurological deficits, such as weakness, ataxia, or tremors.
D. Review current medication list including dosage & frequency
Medication history is critical in neurological assessments, as certain medications (e.g., anticoagulants, anticonvulsants) can impact the client’s condition.
E. Ask about current alcohol or drug use
Alcohol and drug use can contribute to neurological impairment and should be assessed during the history-taking process.
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