A nurse is working with an interdisciplinary disaster committee to develop a community-wide emergency response plan in the event of a nonbiological or chemical incident. The nurse should include which of the following agencies to be notified immediately after calling 911?

Choice A reason: Explaining the procedure, risks, and benefits

Explaining the surgical procedure, including its risks and benefits, is primarily the responsibility of the surgeon. This is because the surgeon has the detailed knowledge and expertise regarding the specific procedure and can provide comprehensive information to the patient. The nurse’s role in this context is to support the patient by clarifying any information provided by the surgeon and ensuring that the patient understands the instructions. Nurses can also address any immediate concerns or questions the patient might have, but the detailed explanation of the procedure itself is outside their scope of practice.

Choice B reason: Reviewing preoperative instructions

Reviewing preoperative instructions is within the nurse’s responsibilities. Nurses play a crucial role in ensuring that patients understand and follow preoperative instructions, which may include fasting guidelines, medication adjustments, and other preparatory steps. This helps to minimize surgical risks and ensures that the patient is adequately prepared for the procedure. By reviewing these instructions, nurses help to reinforce the information provided by the surgical team and ensure patient compliance.

Choice C reason: Obtaining test results

Obtaining and reviewing test results is also within the nurse’s scope of practice. Nurses are responsible for ensuring that all necessary preoperative tests have been completed and that the results are available for the surgical team. This includes coordinating with the laboratory and other departments to obtain timely results and reviewing them to identify any potential issues that need to be addressed before surgery. This step is critical in ensuring patient safety and readiness for the procedure.

Choice D reason: Ensuring that a signed surgical consent form was completed

Ensuring that a signed surgical consent form is completed is a shared responsibility between the nurse and the surgeon. While the surgeon is responsible for obtaining informed consent by explaining the procedure, risks, and benefits, the nurse’s role is to verify that the consent form has been signed and documented appropriately. This verification process is crucial to ensure that the patient has given informed consent before proceeding with the surgery.

Choice E reason: Assessing the current health status of the client

Assessing the current health status of the client is a fundamental responsibility of the nurse. This involves conducting a thorough health assessment, including taking vital signs, reviewing the patient’s medical history, and identifying any potential risks or concerns that may affect the surgery. This assessment helps to establish a baseline for the patient’s condition and ensures that any necessary precautions are taken to promote a safe surgical outcome.

Choice A: Ice packs to affected area 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off

Reason: Ice packs are generally contraindicated for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). The use of ice packs can cause vasoconstriction, which narrows blood vessels and reduces blood flow. This can exacerbate the pain and potentially trigger a vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) by further restricting blood flow to the already compromised areas. Studies have shown that cold exposure can worsen pain in SCD patients, making ice packs an unsuitable option.

Choice B: Intravenous fluids (IVF) at maintenance rate

Reason: Intravenous fluids are anticipated for patients with SCD, especially during a pain crisis. Hydration is crucial as it helps to reduce the viscosity of the blood, thereby improving blood flow and reducing the likelihood of sickling. Adequate hydration can help to alleviate pain and prevent further complications. The administration of IV fluids is a standard practice in managing acute pain episodes in SCD patients.

Choice C: Ketorolac IV for pain

Reason: Ketorolac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is anticipated for managing pain in SCD patients. It provides effective pain relief without the risks associated with opioids, such as respiratory depression and dependence. Ketorolac works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in the inflammatory process and pain signaling. It is particularly useful for acute pain management in SCD patients.

Choice D: Ambulate in hallway with supervision

Reason: Ambulation during a pain crisis is generally contraindicated for SCD patients. Movement can increase pain and stress on the affected areas, potentially worsening the condition. During a VOC, patients are often advised to rest and avoid activities that could exacerbate the pain. While physical activity is important for overall health, it should be carefully managed and avoided during acute pain episodes.

Choice E: Meperidine IV for pain

Reason: Meperidine is contraindicated for pain management in SCD patients due to its potential for serious side effects. Meperidine can accumulate in the body and produce a toxic metabolite called normeperidine, which can cause seizures and other adverse effects. Additionally, meperidine is less effective than other opioids and has a higher risk of causing dependency and other complications. Therefore, it is not recommended for managing pain in SCD patients.