A nurse is assessing a client who sustained major full-thickness burns to their lower legs 12 hours ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Epithelialization at the site
Severe pain at the site
Edema at the site
Blistering at the site
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Epithelialization at the site of a major full-thickness burn would not be expected 12 hours post-injury. Epithelialization is a later stage of wound healing where new skin cells form and cover the wound. In full-thickness burns, this process is significantly delayed and typically requires skin grafting for wound closure.
Choice B reason: Severe pain is not typically associated with full-thickness burns due to the destruction of nerve endings in the skin. However, there may be severe pain in the surrounding areas that have sustained less severe burns.
Choice C reason: Edema is a common and expected finding at the site of a major full-thickness burn 12 hours post-injury. The inflammatory response to the burn injury leads to increased vascular permeability and fluid shift from the intravascular to the interstitial space, resulting in edema.
Choice D reason: Blistering is characteristic of partial-thickness burns (second-degree burns) but not full-thickness burns (third-degree burns). In full-thickness burns, the skin is destroyed to the point where blisters do not form.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cheyne-Stokes respirations, characterized by a pattern of irregular breathing with periods of apnea, can be a sign of brain stem compression due to increased intracranial pressure. However, it is not typically the first sign of deteriorating neurological status.
Choice B reason: Pupillary dilation, especially if it is unilateral, can indicate pressure on the cranial nerves due to increased intracranial pressure. It is a concerning sign but may not be the first to appear as neurological function deteriorates.
Choice C reason: An altered level of consciousness is often the first sign of deteriorating neurological status in a patient with increased intracranial pressure. Changes in consciousness can range from slight disorientation or confusion to complete unresponsiveness.
Choice D reason: Decorticate posturing, which involves abnormal flexion of the arms with extension of the legs, indicates significant brain injury and is a later sign of increased intracranial pressure, not typically the first sign.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Clearing items from the client's surrounding area is important, but it is not the first action a nurse should take. The priority is to prevent injury to the client, and while removing potential hazards is part of this, it comes after ensuring the client's immediate safety.
Choice B reason: Loosening restrictive clothing can help the client breathe more easily and prevent further injury. However, this is not the first step in seizure first aid. The initial focus should be on preventing injury by controlling the client's fall.
Choice C reason: Lowering the client to the floor is the first and most critical action to take. This prevents a fall that could result in serious injury. Once on the floor, the client should be turned gently onto one side to help maintain an open airway and allow any fluids to drain, which can help prevent aspiration.
Choice D reason: Obtaining the client's vital signs is a secondary action after the seizure has ended. During a seizure, the primary concern is the client's immediate safety, which includes preventing injury and maintaining an open airway.
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