A nurse is caring for four children in an emergency department. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?

A. Changing the inner cannula on a tracheostomy: This procedure falls within the RN's scope of practice, as it involves basic tracheostomy care and maintenance, which nurses commonly perform.
B. Administering a platelet transfusion: Administering blood and blood products, including platelet transfusions, is within the RN's scope of practice, provided the nurse has appropriate training and competency.
C. Irrigation of an external ear canal: Irrigation of an external ear canal is a routine nursing procedure that falls within the RN's scope of practice, as long as it does not involve invasive procedures beyond irrigation.
D. Inserting a tunneled central venous catheter: Inserting tunneled central venous catheters is typically performed by advanced practice nurses or physicians with specific training and certification, such as nurse practitioners or interventional radiologists. This procedure is beyond the scope of practice for RNs and requires specialized skills and knowledge.

A. Placental abruption: Placental abruption is characterized by the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery of the fetus. Sudden, severe abdominal pain, moderate to severe vaginal bleeding, persistent uterine contractions, and uterine rigidity are classic signs and symptoms of placental abruption. Hypotension may occur due to hemorrhage, leading to decreased perfusion to vital organs.
B. Uterine rupture: Uterine rupture involves a tear in the uterine wall, which can lead to severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and signs of shock. However, uterine rupture typically occurs during labor or delivery, particularly in women with a history of uterine surgery or trauma.
C. Placenta previa: Placenta previa is characterized by the implantation of the placenta over or near the internal cervical os. It can cause painless vaginal bleeding in the third trimester, particularly after 20 weeks of gestation. However, it is not typically associated with severe abdominal pain or uterine rigidity.
D. Amniotic fluid embolus: An amniotic fluid embolus occurs when amniotic fluid, fetal cells, hair, or other debris enter the maternal circulation, leading to a potentially life-threatening reaction. Symptoms may include sudden dyspnea, hypotension, cardiovascular collapse, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). While it can cause severe complications, the symptoms described in the scenario are more consistent with placental abruption.