A nurse in an emergency department is performing an assessment on a client who reports being sexually assaulted. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Ask the client for permission to take photographs.
Provide community sexual assault support contacts.
Document the client's verbatim statements.
Determine any physical signs of injury.
The Correct Answer is C
Answer: c. Document the client's verbatim statements.
Here's why the other options are wrong:
- a. Ask the client for permission to take photographs: While photographs may be collected as evidence later, it should not be the first priority. The priority is to focus on patient care and emotional well-being.
- b. Provide community sexual assault support contacts: Offering support resources is important, but documenting the details of the assault is crucial for forensic and legal purposes, and should come first.
- d. Determine any physical signs of injury: Looking for physical injuries is important, but documenting the client's account should come first. This ensures the client's narrative is captured accurately and can be referred to later.
Documenting the client's verbatim statements is the most important initial action because:
- It preserves the client's account of the assault in their own words.
- It allows for accurate reporting and investigation.
- It can be used as evidence in legal proceedings.
Here are some supporting points:
- The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN): "Law enforcement will need to take a detailed statement about the assault, and a medical professional will likely perform a physical exam. Be prepared to answer questions about what happened." [1]
- The National Sexual Assault Hotline: "Law enforcement will want to get a statement from you as soon as possible after the assault. Try to remember the details of the assault as clearly as you can." [2]
In conclusion, while all the other options are important aspects of caring for a sexual assault survivor, documenting the client's verbatim statements is the most critical initial action for a nurse to take in the emergency department setting.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. A room containing personal belongings.
Choice A rationale:
Similar to the rationale provided for , a room without a window would not provide the necessary sensory input and connection to the outside world. Natural light and visual stimuli are important for maintaining a sense of time and orientation.
Choice B rationale:
A room containing personal belongings is the correct answer for the same reasons as mentioned in the previous question. Familiar items can provide comfort and reduce feelings of agitation in cognitively impaired individuals.
Choice C rationale:
Once again, a room adjacent to the nursing station could expose the client to unnecessary noise and activity, potentially causing distress and hindering the therapeutic environment required for cognitively impaired individuals.
Choice D rationale:
Dim lighting can contribute to disorientation and confusion. Adequate lighting helps individuals perceive their surroundings and reduces the risk of accidents.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B: "Tell me more about your concerns about taking chemotherapy."
Choice A rationale:
This response focuses on negative outcomes and might discourage the client from exploring her options. It does not support the client's autonomy or address her concerns about nontraditional treatments. The nurse's role should be to facilitate open communication and understanding.
Choice B rationale:
This response is the most therapeutic. By inviting the client to share her concerns, the nurse demonstrates empathy and encourages the client to express her thoughts and feelings. This approach fosters a collaborative and respectful relationship, allowing the nurse to address the client's worries effectively.
Choice C rationale:
This response is directive and dismissive of the client's wishes. It fails to consider the client's perspective and autonomy. The nurse should avoid imposing personal opinions and instead promote a patient-centered approach.
Choice D rationale:
While acknowledging the provider's expertise is important, this response does not address the client's concerns about nontraditional treatments. It's essential to focus on the client's individual preferences and provide information to help her make an informed decision.
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