A nurse in an emergency department is assisting with the care of a client who is unconscious and has trauma to multiple systems following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Airway protection
Stabilizing cardiac arrhythmias
Preventing musculoskeletal disability
Decreasing intracranial pressure
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This action is correct because airway protection is the first priority for a client who is unconscious and has trauma to multiple systems. The nurse should assess the client's airway patency, breathing, and oxygenation, and intervene as needed to secure and maintain the airway. The nurse should also monitor the client for signs of aspiration, bleeding, or obstruction, and suction the airway as needed.
Choice B reason: This action is incorrect because stabilizing cardiac arrhythmias is not the first priority for a client who is unconscious and has trauma to multiple systems. The nurse should assess the client's circulation, blood pressure, and pulse, and intervene as needed to treat any arrhythmias, shock, or hemorrhage. However, this is not a priority over the client's airway, which is essential for survival.
Choice C reason: This action is incorrect because preventing musculoskeletal disability is not the first priority for a client who is unconscious and has trauma to multiple systems. The nurse should assess the client's mobility, sensation, and alignment, and intervene as needed to prevent or treat any fractures, dislocations, or nerve injuries. However, this is not a priority over the client's airway, which is essential for survival.
Choice D reason: This action is incorrect because decreasing intracranial pressure is not the first priority for a client who is unconscious and has trauma to multiple systems. The nurse should assess the client's level of consciousness, pupillary response, and neurological status, and intervene as needed to prevent or treat any increased intracranial pressure, cerebral edema, or brain injury. However, this is not a priority over the client's airway, which is essential for survival.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Requiring the nurse to reapply for a new license is not the purpose of renewal. Renewal is a process of updating the existing license and verifying the nurse's qualifications and competencies. Reapplying for a new license is a different process that involves submitting a new application and meeting the initial requirements.
Choice B reason: Maintaining the nurse's right to practice nursing is the purpose of renewal. Renewal ensures that the nurse meets the standards of practice and the continuing education requirements. Renewal also protects the public from unqualified or incompetent nurses.
Choice C reason: Granting the nurse permission to practice in more than one state is not the purpose of renewal. Renewal applies to the license issued by the state where the nurse practices. To practice in more than one state, the nurse needs to obtain a multistate license or a license by endorsement from another state.
Choice D reason: Providing the nurse a new license in another state is not the purpose of renewal. Renewal does not change the state of licensure or the license number. To obtain a new license in another state, the nurse needs to apply for a license by endorsement or examination from that state.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This statement is correct because the nurse should use objective terminology when documenting the occurrence. Objective terminology means using factual, unbiased, and verifiable information, such as the date, time, location, witnesses, and events of the occurrence. The nurse should avoid using subjective, opinionated, or judgmental language, such as blaming, criticizing, or speculating about the occurrence.
Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect because the nurse should not wait at least 12 hours to report the occurrence. The nurse should report the occurrence as soon as possible, preferably within an hour of the incident. The nurse should also notify the appropriate personnel, such as the charge nurse, the provider, and the risk manager. Delaying the report may compromise the client's safety and wellbeing, and the accuracy and completeness of the documentation.
Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect because the nurse should not omit the name of the individuals involved in the occurrence. The nurse should include the name of the client, the staff, and any other relevant parties, such as family members or visitors. The nurse should also document the role and actions of each individual, and their response to the occurrence. Omitting the name of the individuals may affect the accountability and follow-up of the occurrence.
Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect because the nurse should not document completion of the report in the client’s medical record. The nurse should document the occurrence report separately from the client’s medical record, and follow the facility's policy and procedure for filing and storing the report. The nurse should also document the occurrence in the client’s medical record, but only the facts and the nursing actions, not the details or the existence of the report. Documenting completion of the report in the client’s medical record may expose the facility to legal liability or litigation.
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