A nurse enters a client's room and finds her sitting on the floor next to the shower. The client states that she slipped on some water outside of the shower. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Notify the client's provider.
Measure the client's vital signs.
Complete an incident report.
Document the fall in the client's medical record.
The Correct Answer is B
When a nurse encounters a client who has fallen, the immediate priority is to assess the client's condition and ensure their safety. By measuring the client's vital signs, the nurse can gather important information about the client's overall well-being, such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. This assessment helps determine if there are any immediate medical concerns resulting from the fall, such as injury or shock, that require prompt attention.
The other options listed are also important but should be addressed after the initial assessment and safety measures:
A. Notify the client's provider: After assessing the client's condition, if there are significant injuries or concerns identified, the nurse should promptly notify the client's provider to seek further medical guidance and intervention.
C. Complete an incident report: Reporting the fall incident is an essential part of ensuring quality and safety in healthcare. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take. The immediate focus should be on the client's assessment and safety. Completing an incident report can be done once the client's immediate needs are addressed.
D. Document the fall in the client's medical record: Documenting the fall in the client's medical record is important for maintaining accurate and comprehensive documentation. However, it should be done after the client's assessment, vital sign measurement, and any necessary interventions have been carried out.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Herpes simplex is a viral infection that causes skin eruptions or lesions. To promote healing and prevent secondary infections, it is important to keep the affected area clean. Cleansing the skin eruptions with povidone-iodine, an antiseptic solution, can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.

The other options are incorrect:
Over-the-counter topical ointments are generally not recommended for the treatment of herpes simplex outbreaks. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate medication and treatment options.
Herpes simplex is a viral infection, and antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like herpes simplex.
Placing disposable thermometers in the client's room is not directly related to the management of a herpes simplex outbreak. It is important to focus on interventions specific to the client's condition.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Placing soiled linens on the floor can lead to cross-contamination and the spread of infectious agents. This can pose a risk to the immunocompromised client, who may be more susceptible to infections.
Lining waste containers with single bags helps contain potentially infectious waste and facilitates proper disposal. This reduces the risk of contamination and exposure to infectious materials.
Using dampened cloths for dusting helps minimize the spread of dust and airborne particles. Dampening the cloth can help capture the dust and prevent it from becoming airborne, reducing the potential for respiratory exposure.
Placing uncapped sharps in a puncture-resistant container is an essential practice to prevent needlestick injuries and the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. This ensures safe disposal of sharps and reduces the risk of accidental needlestick injuries to healthcare workers and clients.
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