A patient with chemical burns to the chest and abdomen is admitted to the emergency department.
The registered nurse begins to flush the area with sterile saline.
What is the first action the LPN should take to stop the burning process?
Prepare IV morphine for administration by the RN.
Apply ice to the burned area.
Apply a neutralizing agent.
Remove the patient’s clothing.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While pain management is important in burn care, the first action should be to stop the burning process. Administering IV morphine does not achieve this.
Choice B rationale
Applying ice to a burn can cause vasoconstriction and may increase tissue damage. It is not the first action to stop the burning process.
Choice C rationale
Applying a neutralizing agent is not the first action in chemical burn management. The priority is to remove the chemical from contact with the skin.
Choice D rationale
Removing the patient’s clothing is the first action in burn management. This prevents further contact of the chemical with the skin and stops the burning process.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Contractures, or the shortening and hardening of muscles, tendons, or other tissue, can be a complication of burns. However, they are not typically the primary risk for a patient with burns on the head, neck, and chest.
Choice B rationale
While fluid imbalance can occur with any burn due to loss of fluid from the damaged skin, it is not typically the primary risk for a patient with burns on the head, neck, and chest.
Choice C rationale
Airway obstruction is a primary risk for a patient with burns on the head, neck, and chest. Swelling from the burns can lead to obstruction of the airway, making it difficult for the patient to breathe.
Choice D rationale
While infection is a risk with any burn, it is not typically the primary risk for a patient with burns on the head, neck, and chest. The primary risk is airway obstruction due to swelling from the burns.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Attaching the chest tube system to the foot of the bed is not recommended. This position could potentially cause the system to tip over or become disconnected, which could lead to complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax.
Choice B rationale
The chest tube system should be placed below the level of the patient’s chest. This allows for gravity-assisted drainage of air and fluid from the thoracic cavity, which is crucial for the patient’s recovery. The system works on a water seal that prevents air or fluid from entering the pleural space. Placing the system below the chest level ensures that the water seal is maintained, preventing backflow of fluid or air into the pleural space.
Choice C rationale
Placing the system along the side of the patient’s knee is not appropriate. This position does not facilitate effective drainage of air and fluid from the thoracic cavity. It could also lead to discomfort and potential dislodgement of the system.
Choice D rationale
Placing the system at the level of the patient’s clavicle is not recommended. This position is too high and could disrupt the water seal, leading to ineffective drainage and potential complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.