A client is brought to the emergency department with partial-thickness burns to his face, neck, arms, and chest after trying to put out a car fire. The nurse should implement which nursing actions for this client? (Select all that apply.)
Submerge client in a cold bath
Administer oxygen
Restrict fluids
Provide a meal high in fiber
Assess airway
Apply ice to burned areas
Correct Answer : E,F
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because submerging the client in a cold bath can cause hypothermia, shock, or infection. Cold water can lower the body temperature and blood pressure, which can impair circulation and organ function. Cold water can also introduce bacteria or contaminants into the open wounds. The nurse should use cool water or saline to gently irrigate the burned areas and then cover them with sterile dressings.
Choice B Reason: This is correct because administering oxygen can help the client breathe better and prevent hypoxia. Burns to the face, neck, or chest can cause swelling or damage to the airway, which can impair gas exchange and oxygen delivery. Oxygen can also reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur from inhaling smoke or fumes.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because restricting fluids can worsen dehydration and shock. Burns can cause significant fluid and electrolyte loss through evaporation and leakage from damaged capillaries. This can lead to hypovolemia, which is low blood volume, and hypotension, which is low blood pressure. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, urine output, and weight, and administer intravenous fluids as ordered.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because providing a meal high in fiber can cause abdominal discomfort or diarrhea. Burns can cause paralytic ileus, which is a temporary loss of bowel function due to nerve damage or inflammation. This can impair digestion and absorption of food and cause nausea, vomiting, or constipation. The nurse should assess the client's bowel sounds and provide enteral or parenteral nutrition as ordered.
Choice E Reason: This is correct because assessing airway is a priority nursing action for a client with burns. As mentioned above, burns to the face, neck, or chest can compromise the airway and cause respiratory distress or failure. The nurse should assess the client's level of consciousness, breathing rate and pattern, oxygen saturation, and signs of inhalation injury, such as sooty sputum, singed nasal hairs, or hoarseness. The nurse should also be prepared to assist with intubation or tracheostomy if needed.
Choice F Reason: This is correct because applying ice to burned areas can help reduce pain and swelling. Ice can constrict blood vessels and numb nerve endings, which can decrease inflammation and sensation. However, ice should be applied for no more than 15 minutes at a time and wrapped in a cloth or towel to prevent frostbite or tissue damage. Ice should not be applied to large or deep burns.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because turning off the lights and TV and closing the door may increase the client's anxiety and confusion. The nurse should provide adequate lighting and familiar objects to help orient the client.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because using restraints may increase the risk of injury, infection, and psychological distress for the client. The nurse should use restraints only as a last resort and with a physician's order.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because asking for a sedative may not address the underlying cause of the agitation. The nurse should use non-pharmacological interventions first, such as calming music, massage, or aromatherapy.
Choice D Reason: This is correct because identifying the cause of the agitation may help resolve it. The nurse should assess for possible triggers, such as pain, hunger, thirst, infection, or environmental factors.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is a correct choice. Standing next to the client when speaking is an action that the nurse should plan to take, as it helps the client hear better and see the nurse's facial expressions and lip movements. The nurse should also speak clearly and slowly, use simple words and sentences, and avoid covering their mouth.
Choice B Reason: This is a correct choice. Guiding the client away from background noise is an action that the nurse should plan to take, as it reduces distractions and interference with hearing. The nurse should also choose a well-lit and quiet place for communication and turn off any unnecessary devices or appliances.
Choice C Reason: This is an incorrect choice. Providing a copy of the instructions printed in Braille is not an action that the nurse should plan to take, as it is not helpful for clients with hearing loss. Braille is a system of raised dots that represents letters and numbers for people who are blind or visually impaired. The nurse should provide a copy of the instructions printed in large font or use pictures or diagrams to supplement verbal information.
Choice D Reason: This is a correct choice. Repeating any phrases that the client misunderstands is an action that the nurse should plan to take, as it ensures comprehension and clarification of important information. The nurse should also ask open-ended questions, encourage feedback, and summarize key points at the end of the conversation.
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