During the primary survey of a patient with severe leg trauma, the nurse observes that the patient's left pedal and posterior tibial pulses are absent, and the entire leg is swollen. Which action will the nurse take next?
Send blood to the lab for a complete blood count.
Finish the airway, breathing, circulation, disability survey.
Assess further for a cause of the decreased circulation,
Start normal saline fluid infusion with a large bore IV line.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Sending blood to the lab for a complete blood count can wait until after immediate stabilization measures are initiated.
B. Finishing the primary survey is important, but the absent pulses and swollen leg suggest a critical vascular issue that needs immediate attention.
C. Assessing further for the cause of decreased circulation is the next step to determine if immediate intervention such as surgical consultation or revascularization is needed.
D. Starting normal saline infusion may be necessary later, but determining the cause of decreased circulation takes priority to prevent potential limb loss.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Clinical breast examinations are generally recommended every 1 to 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s and annually for women 40 and older. However, the emphasis has shifted towards mammography as a primary screening tool.
B. Routine screening for colorectal cancer typically begins at age 45 for average-risk individuals, not 40. Colonoscopies are generally recommended every 10 years if results are normal.
C. Mammograms are typically recommended to start at age 40 for average-risk women, with yearly screening starting at age 45 or 50 depending on guidelines.
D. Annual testing for fecal occult blood is a recommended screening method for colorectal cancer starting at age 45, as it helps detect blood in the stool which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This client has respiratory distress but is conscious and stable, requiring urgent but not immediate attention compared to other critical conditions.
B. This client has a dislocated shoulder, which is painful and needs attention but is not life-threatening compared to other conditions.
C. This client is unconscious with a sucking chest wound and high respiratory rate, indicating severe respiratory compromise and needing immediate intervention to prevent further deterioration.
D. This client is also unconscious with no respirations despite attempted airway management, indicating a need for immediate resuscitative efforts, potentially including CPR.
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