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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Praying and using relaxation techniques when experiencing rapid breathing are effective stress management strategies. These techniques help manage the body's stress response and promote relaxation.
Choice B rationale:
Journaling is a constructive way to manage stress, especially when verbal expression is difficult. It allows individuals to reflect on their thoughts and emotions, leading to a sense of relief.
Choice C rationale:
"Fixing a pot of coffee" when anxious is the least effective technique mentioned. Consuming large amounts of caffeine can exacerbate anxiety symptoms by increasing heart rate and contributing to a sense of restlessness and nervousness.
Choice D rationale:
Engaging in physical exercise when experiencing tension in the neck is a productive strategy. Exercise promotes the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters and stress reducers.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Telling the newly diagnosed cancer clients that they need to work hard on resolving conflicts with those closest to them may come across as insensitive and dismissive of their emotional struggles. Cancer diagnosis often brings about complex emotions, and this response does not acknowledge or address their concerns.
Choice B rationale:
This response acknowledges the client's statement and encourages further discussion about their feelings regarding their inability to return to work. It shows empathy and a willingness to explore their concerns, promoting open communication and emotional support.
Choice C rationale:
Commenting on the client's physical behavior without context might make them uncomfortable or self-conscious. The nurse's observation about fist clenching should be addressed more delicately if relevant, and the focus should be on the emotional aspect rather than the physical behavior.
Choice D rationale:
Dismissing the potential benefit of antidepressants and promoting the therapy group might undermine the client's feelings and choices. While group therapy can be beneficial, this response overlooks the potential need for a multifaceted approach to treatment, which could include therapy and medication.
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