A nurse is caring for a client who questions the need for cardiac rehabilitation, stating, “My heart is permanently damaged from the heart attack, so what’s the point of cardiac rehabilitation?” Which response should the nurse prioritize?

Choice A reason:

Identification of resources to meet anticipated needs is a critical component of disaster planning. Nurses play a key role in identifying the resources required for effective disaster response, including medical supplies, personnel, and equipment. This ensures that the hospital is prepared to meet the needs of patients during a disaster.

Choice B reason:

Participation in comprehensive annual drills is essential for disaster preparedness. Nurses are involved in these drills to practice and refine their response skills, ensuring they are ready to act effectively in a real disaster. Drills help identify gaps in the disaster plan and provide opportunities for improvement.

Choice C reason:

Internal and external communications are vital during a disaster. Nurses are involved in establishing and maintaining communication channels within the hospital and with external agencies. Effective communication ensures coordination and timely response, which are crucial for managing a disaster situation.

Choice D reason:

Performing duties outside the typical job description may occur during a disaster, but it is not a primary component of the disaster plan. The focus is on ensuring that all staff are prepared to perform their roles effectively. While flexibility is important, the disaster plan should primarily outline specific roles and responsibilities.

Choice E reason:

Development of a decontamination plan is an important aspect of disaster preparedness, especially in scenarios involving hazardous materials. Nurses contribute to creating and implementing decontamination protocols to protect patients and staff from exposure to harmful substances.

Choice A reason:

Blunt force trauma refers to injuries caused by impact with a blunt object, resulting in contusions, abrasions, lacerations, or fractures. While blunt force trauma can occur in explosions, it is typically associated with tertiary blast injuries, where the victim is thrown against a solid object. Secondary injuries from high-order explosives are more specifically related to penetrating injuries caused by flying debris and shrapnel.

Choice B reason:

Hollow organ damage is a type of primary blast injury caused by the overpressure wave from an explosion. This wave can cause significant damage to gas-filled organs such as the lungs, intestines, and ears. However, secondary injuries are not typically characterized by hollow organ damage. Secondary injuries are more commonly associated with penetrating trauma from debris and shrapnel.

Choice C reason:

Post-trauma stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While PTSD is a serious and common consequence of exposure to explosions and other traumatic events, it is not classified as a secondary injury. Secondary injuries refer to physical injuries caused by flying debris and shrapnel, not psychological conditions.

Choice D reason:

Penetrating injuries are the hallmark of secondary blast injuries. These injuries occur when fragments from the explosive device or surrounding materials are propelled at high velocity, causing wounds that penetrate the skin and underlying tissues. These injuries can be severe and life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention. The nurse should anticipate and be prepared to manage penetrating injuries in clients exposed to high-order explosives.