A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a child who has a temperature of 39.1° C (102.4° F) and a suspected diagnosis of bacterial meningitis.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Prepare the child for a lumbar puncture.
Implement droplet precautions for the child.
Dim the lights in the child's room.
Administer an antipyretic to the child.
The Correct Answer is B
The nurse should first implement droplet precautions for the child.
Bacterial meningitis can be spread through respiratory and throat secretions, so it is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of infection.
Choice A is wrong because while a lumbar puncture may be necessary for diagnosis, preventing the spread of infection is a higher priority.
Choice C is wrong because while dimming the lights may provide comfort, preventing the spread of infection is a higher priority.
Choice D is wrong because while administering an antipyretic may provide comfort, preventing the spread of infection is a higher priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A decrease in peripheral edema is an indication that the furosemide medication is effective.
Furosemide is a diuretic that helps to reduce fluid buildup in the body, including peripheral edema, which is a common symptom of heart failure.
Choice B is wrong because furosemide does not directly decrease cardiac output.
Choice C is wrong because furosemide does not increase venous pressure.
Choice D is wrong because furosemide can actually cause a decrease in potassium levels, not an increase.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The first action the nurse should take is to assess the respiratory status of the infant.
After a head injury, it is important to ensure that the child’s airway is clear and that they are breathing adequately.
This is a crucial step in providing care for a patient with a head injury.
Choice B is wrong because inspecting for fluid leaking from the ears is not the first priority.
Choice C is wrong because examining the scalp for lacerations is not the first priority.
Choice D is wrong because checking pupil reactions is not the first priority.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today