A nurse enters a client's room and sees smoke coming from the trash can next to the client's bed. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A reason: This is not an appropriate action to take first because pulling the fire alarm panel can alert other staff and personnel about the fire and activate the emergency response system, but it does not address the immediate safety and well-being of the client who is exposed to smoke and flames. The nurse should pull the fire alarm panel after removing the client from the room.

Choice B reason: This is not an appropriate action to take first because obtaining a fire extinguisher can help extinguish or contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other areas, but it does not address the immediate safety and well-being of the client who is exposed to smoke and flames. The nurse should obtain a fire extinguisher after removing the client from the room.

Choice C reason: This is an appropriate action to take first because removing the client from the room can protect them from smoke inhalation, burns, or injuries and ensure their safety and well-being. The nurse should remove the client from the room as quickly and safely as possible and follow the RACE protocol (Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish).

Choice D reason: This is not an appropriate action to take first because closing the door to the client's room can help contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other areas, but it does not address the immediate safety and well-being of the client who is exposed to smoke and flames. The nurse should close the door to the client's room after removing them from the room.

Choice A reason: This is not a priority finding to report to the provider because temperature 37.8° C (100° F) indicates a mild fever that can be caused by inflammation or infection of the appendix or other organs. The nurse should monitor the client's temperature and administer antipyretics as prescribed.

Choice B reason: This is not a priority finding to report to the provider because loss of appetite is a common symptom of appendicitis that can result from nausea, vomiting, or pain. The nurse should encourage oral fluid intake and provide clear liquids or bland foods as tolerated.

Choice C reason: This is not a priority finding to report to the provider because WBC count 15,000/mm³ indicates leukocytosis or elevated white blood cell count that can be caused by inflammation or infection of the appendix or other organs. The nurse should monitor the client's laboratory values and administer antibiotics as prescribed.

Choice D reason: This is a priority finding to report to the provider because rigid, board-like abdomen indicates peritonitis or inflammation of the peritoneum that can be caused by rupture or perforation of the appendix or other organs. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention and aggressive fluid and antibiotic therapy. The nurse should assess the client's abdominal pain, distension, and guarding and notify the provider immediately.