A client arrived via ambulance to the emergency department with a chief complaint of gastrointestinal bleeding for 2 hours.
What will the triage nurse do first?
Insert a nasogastric (NG) tube.
Ask the client about the precipitating events.
Obtain vital signs.
Complete a head-to-toe assessment.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube is not the first priority in managing a client with gastrointestinal bleeding. The primary concern is to stabilize the client and assess their condition. Inserting an NG tube can be considered later to decompress the stomach and assess the extent of bleeding, but it is not the initial step.
Choice B rationale
Asking the client about the precipitating events is important for gathering information, but it is not the first priority. The immediate focus should be on assessing the client’s current condition and stabilizing them. Once the client is stable, a detailed history can be obtained.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining vital signs is the first priority in managing a client with gastrointestinal bleeding. Vital signs provide critical information about the client’s hemodynamic status and help determine the severity of the bleeding. This information is essential for guiding further interventions and ensuring the client’s stability.
Choice D rationale
Completing a head-to-toe assessment is important, but it is not the first priority. The initial focus should be on assessing the client’s vital signs to determine their hemodynamic status. A comprehensive assessment can be performed once the client’s immediate condition is stabilized.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking the circulation of the affected extremity is crucial because the greatest risk to the client is neuromuscular injury resulting from compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when there’s increased pressure within the muscles, leading to decreased blood flow, which can cause muscle and nerve damage. Early detection and intervention are essential to prevent permanent damage.
Choice B rationale
Administering additional pain medication might provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue of potential compartment syndrome. Pain unrelieved by medication is a key indicator of this condition, and addressing circulation is the priority.
Choice C rationale
Repositioning the affected extremity might help with comfort, but it does not address the potential for compartment syndrome. The primary concern is ensuring adequate blood flow to prevent tissue damage.
Choice D rationale
Documenting the findings is important for medical records, but it does not address the immediate risk of compartment syndrome. Immediate action to check circulation is necessary to prevent serious complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Removing the vest daily is not recommended as it can disrupt the alignment and stability provided by the halo fixation device.
Choice B rationale
The halo jacket should be snug but not too tight to avoid pressure sores and discomfort.
Choice C rationale
Providing range of motion to the neck is contraindicated as the halo fixation device is meant to immobilize the cervical spine.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring for an elevated temperature is crucial as it can indicate an infection, which is a common complication with halo fixation devices.
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