A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who has a deep laceration on her left lower forearm and is bleeding heavily from the wound. Which of the following interventions should the nurse perform first?
Place the client in a modified Trendelenburg position.
Apply a tourniquet just above the wound.
Start two large-bore IV catheters.
Apply pressure directly to the wound.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Placing the client in a modified Trendelenburg position is not the first intervention for a client with a deep laceration and heavy bleeding. This position involves tilting the patient with the head lower than the feet and is typically used to improve venous return in certain situations, such as hypovolemic shock. However, for a bleeding wound, the priority is to control the bleeding itself.
Choice B rationale:
Applying a tourniquet just above the wound is a drastic measure and is generally not the first intervention for controlling bleeding. Tourniquets are used when direct pressure and other methods are unsuccessful, as they can lead to complications such as tissue damage and ischemia if not used correctly.
Choice C rationale:
Starting two large-bore IV catheters is important for fluid resuscitation in cases of significant bleeding. However, it is not the first intervention. Directly controlling the bleeding takes precedence to prevent further blood loss.
Choice D rationale:
Applying pressure directly to the wound is the correct answer. This is the initial and immediate action to take when dealing with a heavily bleeding wound. Applying pressure helps to stem the bleeding by promoting clot formation and reducing blood loss. It is a vital step in managing the client's condition and preventing further deterioration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is: d. Left fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line.
Choice A: Left fourth intercostal space at the sternal border
The fourth intercostal space at the sternal border is not the typical location for the Point of Maximal Impulse (PMI). This area is more commonly associated with the tricuspid valve auscultation point. The PMI is usually found more laterally and inferiorly.
Choice B: Left third intercostal space at the sternal border
The third intercostal space at the sternal border is also not the correct location for the PMI. This area is generally used for auscultating the pulmonic valve. The PMI is located further down and towards the midclavicular line.
Choice C: Left second intercostal space at the midclavicular line
The second intercostal space at the midclavicular line is typically where the aortic valve is auscultated. The PMI is not found this high up on the chest.
Choice D: Left fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line
This is the correct location for palpating the Point of Maximal Impulse (PMI). The PMI is usually located at the apex of the heart, which is found at the left fifth intercostal space along the midclavicular line. This is where the left ventricle is closest to the chest wall and can be felt most strongly during systole.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Keeping a promise to a client not to tell their family about their diagnosis is an example of fidelity, respecting confidentiality and maintaining trust. However, it does not directly reflect the ethical principle of beneficence, which focuses on actions that promote the patient's well-being and best interests.
Choice B rationale:
Providing therapeutic touch to a dying patient by holding their hand is an example of beneficence. This action demonstrates compassion, emotional support, and comfort to the patient in a critical and vulnerable time. It promotes the patient's well-being by addressing their emotional and psychological needs.
Choice C rationale:
Involving a client in making decisions about their care is an example of respecting their autonomy and practicing shared decision-making. While this action is important and aligns with the principle of autonomy, it is not a direct example of beneficence, which centers on actively doing good for the patient.
Choice D rationale:
Telling the truth about forgetting to perform a procedure for a client is an example of honesty and integrity, which are essential ethical principles in nursing. However, it does not directly relate to beneficence, which emphasizes actions that actively contribute to the patient's well-being and benefit.
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