A nurse is caring for an adolescent who states an intention to self-harm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.
Apply wrist restraints to the adolescent.
Collect data about the adolescent's mental status.
Obtain consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints.
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse should maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.
Choice A reason:
The first and most crucial action when a patient expresses an intention to self-harm is to ensure their safety. By maintaining continuous observation, the nurse can closely monitor the adolescent's behavior and intervene promptly if any signs of self-harm emerge. This action helps prevent immediate harm and allows for timely interventions.
Choice B reason:
Applying wrist restraints to the adolescent (Choice B) would not be appropriate in this situation. Restraints are typically used as a last resort for patients who pose a danger to themselves or others and only when less restrictive measures have failed. In the case of self- harm, using restraints can increase the patient's distress and potentially worsen the situation.
Choice C reason:
Collecting data about the adolescent's mental status (Choice C) is an essential step in understanding their overall condition, but it should not be the first action taken. While gathering data is important for a comprehensive assessment, immediate safety concerns must take precedence.
Choice D reason:
Obtaining consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints (Choice D) is not the first priority when the patient expresses an intention to self-harm. The focus should be on ensuring the patient's immediate safety, and consent for restraints may be necessary only if other interventions prove inadequate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The fracture does not cross through the bone. Choice A reason:
The statement in Choice A is incorrect because it describes a greenstick fracture as the bone bending and causing a microscopic fracture line. This is not true for a greenstick fracture. A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side while remaining intact on the other side. The rationale for this is that pediatric bones are more flexible than adult bones, and when a force is applied, they tend to bend rather than completely break.
Choice B reason:
Choice B is the correct answer. A greenstick fracture does not cross through the bone; it involves only one side of the bone being broken while the other side remains intact. This type of fracture is common in children because their bones are still developing and contain more collagen, making them more flexible and prone to bending rather than breaking completely.
Choice C reason:
The statement in Choice C is incorrect because it describes a different type of fracture. A compressed fracture involves the bone being crushed or shortened, leading to a raised area at the fracture site. This is not characteristic of a greenstick fracture, which involves bending and partial breakage rather than compression.
Choice D reason:
The statement in Choice D is incorrect because it describes a complete fracture that completely divides the bone into two separate pieces. A greenstick fracture, as explained earlier, is an incomplete fracture and does not completely divide the bone.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The nurse should not offer the child sips of clear liquids during a seizure. During a tonic-clonic seizure, the child's swallowing reflex may be impaired, and giving liquids could lead to aspiration or choking, causing further complications.
Choice B reason:
The nurse should not restrain the child during a seizure using both arms or any other means. Restraint can potentially lead to injury for both the child and the person attempting to restrain them. It is crucial to allow the child to move freely during the seizure to prevent harm.
Choice C reason:
Placing the child's head on a pillow is the correct choice. This positioning helps to protect the child's head from injury during the seizure. The pillow provides a cushioning effect, minimizing the risk of head trauma.
Choice D reason:
The nurse should not instruct the parent to give rectal diazepam to the child at the onset of the seizure unless specifically prescribed by the child's healthcare provider. Diazepam is a medication used to manage seizures, but its administration route and timing should be determined by the child's healthcare provider. Inappropriate use of medication can be dangerous and ineffective.
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