A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who is actively bleeding from a stab wound to the thigh.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Preparing to assist with intubation is the appropriate action for a nurse caring for a child with suspected epiglottitis. Epiglottitis is a medical emergency where the airway can become severely compromised due to inflammation of the epiglottis. Intubation ensures a secure airway, allowing the child to breathe and preventing respiratory distress.

Choice B rationale:

Preparing a cool mist tent is not the priority in suspected epiglottitis. While humidified air can provide comfort for respiratory distress, it does not address the potential for airway obstruction. Intubation takes precedence in this critical situation.

Choice C rationale:

Suctioning the child's oropharynx may worsen the condition in suspected epiglottitis. Suctioning can stimulate the epiglottis, triggering a spasm and further obstructing the airway. Intubation is the primary intervention to secure the airway safely.

Choice D rationale:

Obtaining a throat culture is not the immediate action in suspected epiglottitis. While a throat culture may confirm the diagnosis, the priority is securing the airway to prevent respiratory distress and hypoxia.

The correct answer is choice B: Wear a surgical mask when within 0.9 m (3 feet) of the client.

Choice A rationale:

Fresh flowers are generally discouraged in hospital settings for clients with compromised immune systems due to the risk of infection from soil or water, which can harbor harmful microorganisms. However, this is not specifically related to rubella, which is an airborne virus.

Choice B rationale:

Rubella is transmitted through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Wearing a surgical mask when close to the client can help prevent the spread of the virus. This is especially important to protect individuals who are pregnant or may become pregnant, as rubella can cause serious birth defects.

Choice C rationale:

Negative-airflow pressure rooms are used for clients with airborne infections, such as tuberculosis. While rubella is also airborne, the current guidelines do not require a negative pressure room for its management.

Choice D rationale:

While limiting visitors can help control the spread of infection, it is not the primary action to take for a client with rubella. The focus should be on preventing the spread through droplet transmission, which is addressed by wearing a mask and practicing good hand hygiene.