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
An adolescent who has sickle cell anemia and slurred speech should be assessed first.
Slurred speech can be a sign of a stroke, which is a known complication of sickle cell anemia.
This requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B is wrong because while pain management is important, it is not as urgent as a potential stroke.
Choice C is wrong because while administering medication is important, it is not as urgent as a potential stroke.
Choice D is wrong because while wound care is important, it is not as urgent as a potential stroke.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A 24-gauge catheter is the smallest-gauge catheter and is appropriate for administering IV fluids and medications to an infant.
Choice B is wrong because an opaque dressing would prevent the nurse from visualizing the insertion site.
Choice C is wrong because starting an IV in an infant’s foot can be painful and difficult to secure.
Choice D is wrong because IV sites should be changed every 72-96 hours or according to facility policy.
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