When prioritizing the care of a client with burns, which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Administering pain medication
Providing emotional support to the client
Applying a topical burn ointment
Assessing the client's airway and breathing
The Correct Answer is D
A. Administering pain medication
Pain control is important but secondary to ensuring the airway is clear.
B. Providing emotional support to the client
While necessary, emotional support is not an immediate priority during the acute phase of burn care.
C. Applying a topical burn ointment
This is appropriate after stabilization, not before airway and breathing are assessed.
D. Assessing the client's airway and breathing
Airway and breathing take top priority in burn clients, especially if the burns involve the face, neck, or chest. Inhalation injury, edema, or airway obstruction can be life-threatening and must be assessed immediately.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
Most Likely Condition:
Herpes zoster (Shingles): The client presents with a painful, burning, unilateral rash in a dermatomal distribution with grouped vesicles on an erythematous base — classic for herpes zoster (shingles). The shoulder x-ray is normal, ruling out musculoskeletal causes.
Actions to Take:
Anticipate administering an antiviral medication: Antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir reduce the severity and duration of shingles if started early.
Request a prescription analgesic medication: Shingles is often extremely painful. Ibuprofen was ineffective, so stronger analgesics are likely needed.
Parameters to Monitor:
Pain: Pain monitoring assesses the effectiveness of analgesic and antiviral treatment.
Post-herpetic neuralgia (nerves): Monitoring for lingering nerve pain is crucial, as shingles can lead to long-term nerve damage.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Assist the client with physical therapy exercises:
May be useful postoperatively or in metastatic cases, but not a priority intervention specific to melanoma.
B. Administer pain medication as ordered:
Important if there's pain, but melanomas are often painless. This is supportive, not specific.
C. Monitor for signs of infection:
More relevant post-surgery or chemotherapy, not specific to melanoma management.
D. Educate the client about the importance of sun protection and skin checks:
Prevention and early detection are essential for reducing recurrence and catching new melanomas early.
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