A client admitted to the Emergency Department with a suspected STEM. The nurse anticipates that this client will be immediately prepared for the cardiac catheterization laboratory as the goal of treatment is to:

A) "I agree. Sometimes the adverse effects can be worse than the disease":
While it's important for the nurse to acknowledge the client's concerns, making this statement may not be helpful in this situation. It could unintentionally reinforce fear and anxiety, implying that the chemotherapy's side effects may be worse than the disease itself, which is not always the case. Instead, the nurse should engage the client in a discussion to explore the specific concerns, allowing for tailored support and information.

B) "Someone from the American Cancer Society will be here soon to answer your questions":
While the American Cancer Society can provide valuable support and resources, referring the client to someone else to answer their questions can feel dismissive. The nurse should take the opportunity to listen to the client’s concerns and provide immediate reassurance or information. Direct involvement in the discussion builds trust and allows for more immediate emotional and psychological support.

C) "What is it about the adverse effects that concern you?":
This response is the most appropriate as it encourages the client to express their specific concerns. By asking the client to clarify their worries, the nurse can provide more accurate information, address misunderstandings, and offer reassurance. This open-ended question helps the nurse understand the client's emotions and individual needs, which allows for a more personalized approach in managing anxiety and providing education about the chemotherapy treatment.
D) "I will have your provider discuss the adverse effects with you before the treatment begins":
While it is important for the healthcare provider to discuss the treatment plan and potential side effects, the nurse should not defer the conversation entirely. The nurse plays an essential role in providing ongoing support, educating the client, and answering questions. The nurse can start the conversation and provide information about the common side effects of chemotherapy, offering the opportunity for further discussion with the provider as needed. Deferring the conversation might leave the client feeling unsupported.

A) Start fluid resuscitation and prepare for transport to a Burn Center:
In this case, the patient has burns that cover 27% of the total body surface area (TBSA), which falls within the moderate to severe range for burn injuries. Fluid resuscitation is critical to prevent hypovolemic shock, a common complication of severe burns due to fluid loss. The "rule of nines" or Lund-Browder chart can be used to calculate the amount of fluids needed. The patient should also be prepared for transport to a specialized burn center, where advanced care can be provided for wound management, infection prevention, and long-term rehabilitation.

B) Apply petroleum-based antibiotic cream to the affected areas:
Although topical antibiotics are an essential part of burn care to prevent infection, petroleum-based ointments are typically not recommended in the emergent phase of burn management. Applying such creams could potentially trap heat and cause further tissue damage, and petroleum-based products can be occlusive, which may interfere with wound healing.
C) Cover the burns with saline-soaked gauze and medicated ointment:
While it is important to keep burns covered to prevent infection, the use of saline-soaked gauze and medicated ointments are more appropriate after initial fluid resuscitation and stabilization of the patient. Immediate burn care focuses on preventing further injury and initiating fluid resuscitation. Saline-soaked gauze is typically used in a controlled setting, like in a burn unit, and the patient's wounds should not be excessively covered with ointment during the emergent phase.

D) Clean the wounds with soap and room temperature water:
In burn management, cleaning the wounds with soap and water can disrupt the skin's protective barrier, particularly in the emergent phase. It is important to gently clean the wounds with sterile saline or an antiseptic solution and avoid harsh cleansers. Soap and water might cause irritation, exacerbate pain, and increase the risk of infection. The focus should be on stabilizing the patient and initiating proper wound management with sterile techniques.