A nurse is assessing a client who sustained a basal skull fracture and notes a thin stream of clear drainage coming from the client's right nostril. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Test the drainage for the halo sign.
Ask the client to blow his nose.
Notify the physician.
Suction the nostril.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:Testing the drainage for the halo sign is the first action the nurse should take, as clear drainage from the nose following a basal skull fracture could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which contains glucose.
Choice B reason:Asking the client to blow his nose could potentially increase the risk of infection or worsen a CSF leak and is not recommended as a first action.
Choice C reason:While notifying the physician is important, it should be done after confirming whether the drainage is CSF, which would require immediate medical intervention.
Choice D reason:Suctioning the nostril is not the first action to take, as it could potentially disrupt the site of the leak and is not diagnostic of a CSF leak.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:Increased serum amylase is a common finding in acute pancreatitis as it is released from the inflamed pancreas[^10^].
Choice B reason:A decreased WBC count is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis; an increased count may indicate infection or inflammation.
Choice C reason:Serum calcium is often decreased in acute pancreatitis due to fat saponification and hypoalbuminemia.
Choice D reason:Decreased serum lipase would not be expected; increased levels are indicative of acute pancreatitis, similar to amylase[^10^].
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
No explanation
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.