The nurse is the first person on the scene of a motor vehicle crash. The victim was the driver and is in the driver's seat unconscious. The driver is breathing, has a pulse, and has minor lacerations on the head and face. What action should the nurse implement first?
Use the head tilt chin lift method to maintain the airway
Control any external bleeding
Do not move the victim from the accident
Stabilize the cervical spine until help arrives
The Correct Answer is D
A. The head tilt chin lift method should be avoided due to the risk of aggravating a spinal injury; the jaw-thrust maneuver is safer if airway management is necessary.
B. While controlling bleeding is important, cervical spine stabilization takes priority in trauma with suspected spinal injury.
C. Not moving the victim is appropriate, but stabilizing the cervical spine provides active support to avoid further injury.
D. Stabilizing the cervical spine is crucial to prevent potential spinal cord damage in an unconscious trauma victim, particularly in a motor vehicle accident. This action helps prevent exacerbation of any spinal injury.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Frequent passive range of motion exercises are crucial for preventing complications of immobility, such as contractures and pressure ulcers, and to promote circulation in patients with spinal cord injuries.
B. While coughing and deep breathing exercises are important for respiratory health, they should be performed more frequently than once per shift in patients with reduced mobility to prevent respiratory complications.
C. Turning the patient every 4 hours may not be adequate to prevent pressure ulcers; typically, patients should be turned at least every 2 hours.
D. Patients with a complete spinal cord injury at C7 typically lack the ability to ambulate, making this intervention inappropriate.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Antibiotics may be necessary if infection is confirmed, but this is not the priority action.
B. Applying a pressure dressing could increase intracranial pressure or worsen the injury.
C. IV fluids can be helpful in managing shock but are not directly related to CSF leakage management.
D. Yellowish fluid from the ear, which creates a "halo" or yellow ring around it on gauze, may indicate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. This is a sign of a potential skull fracture and requires prompt provider notification. Allowing the fluid to drain and collecting it can provide necessary information about the injury.
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