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 A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
When dealing with an angry and aggressive client, using clarification is an essential communication technique. It involves asking open-ended questions to better understand the patient's emotions and concerns, which can help defuse the situation and provide insight into the underlying issues.
Choice B rationale:
Maintaining constant eye contact can be interpreted as confrontational or aggressive behavior, potentially escalating the client's aggression. It's important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid behaviors that could exacerbate the situation.
Choice C rationale:
Moving the patient to a private area is a reasonable approach if the environment is contributing to the patient's agitation. However, the primary concern should be the safety of both the patient and the staff. Privacy can be important, but it shouldn't compromise safety.
Choice D rationale:
Speaking to the patient with an authoritative voice and asking "why" questions can escalate the situation further. It may come across as confrontational and provoke a defensive reaction from the patient. Open-ended questions that encourage the patient to express their feelings can be more effective in de-escalation.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is: A, B, C, D.
Choice A reason: Shortening a reading activity when the child appears to become frustrated can help prevent the child from becoming overwhelmed and acting out. This is a common strategy used in managing children with conduct disorders.
Choice B reason: Introducing humor during interactions with the child can help build rapport and make the child feel more comfortable. It can also serve as a positive distraction and reduce tension.
Choice C reason: Redirecting with physical activities when the child’s disruptive behavior begins can serve as a healthy outlet for the child’s energy and frustrations. Physical activities can also help improve the child’s mood and reduce disruptive behaviors.
Choice D reason: Explaining to the child the importance of picking up crayons when thrown on the floor can help teach the child responsibility and respect for their environment. This can also be a part of behavioral therapy where the child learns about consequences of their actions.
Choice E reason: Placing the child in a vest restraint when disruptive behavior occurs is not recommended. Using physical restraints can be traumatizing and should only be used as a last resort when the child’s behavior poses a risk to themselves or others. It’s always better to use de-escalation techniques and positive reinforcement to manage disruptive behavior.
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