The nurse in the trauma unit has received a report on a client who has multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?

Check pupillary response to light.

Check the client's response to questions about place and time.

Assess the capillary refill.

Evaluate chest expansion.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

(Correct Choice) Checking pupillary response to light is a critical first step in the assessment of a client with multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. Pupillary changes can indicate neurological issues, increased intracranial pressure, or damage to the brainstem. Rapidly assessing pupil size, equality, and reactivity helps identify potential life-threatening conditions.

Choice B rationale:

Checking the client's response to questions about place and time is important but not the highest priority in this scenario. Neurological and physiological stability should be addressed first to ensure the client's overall well-being.

Choice C rationale:

Assessing capillary refill is valuable in assessing peripheral circulation and hydration status. However, it is not the primary concern when dealing with a client who has potentially sustained traumatic injuries, where neurological and intracranial issues need to be ruled out or addressed urgently.

Choice D rationale:

Evaluating chest expansion is relevant for assessing lung function and detecting potential injuries like rib fractures. However, given the context of a trauma client, focusing on neurological assessment takes precedence over respiratory assessment in the immediate term.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. The left fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line is the location for palpating the apical pulse, not the pulmonic area. This area is used to assess the heart's apex, particularly for detecting the point of maximal impulse (PMI).

B. The left fifth intercostal space is also associated with the apical pulse, but it lacks the specificity of the midclavicular line, making it less precise for identifying the pulmonic area.

C. The left second intercostal space is the correct location for palpating the pulmonic area. This area is where the pulmonic valve is best auscultated and palpated, allowing for the detection of any abnormal pulsations or sounds related to the pulmonary artery.

D. The right second intercostal space is the location for palpating the aortic area, not the pulmonic area. This site is used to assess the aortic valve and any related abnormalities.

A. Clean the wound by scrubbing the site with gauze. B. Massage reddened areas with dressing changes. C. Reposition the client at least every 2 hours. D. Apply a heat lamp twice a day.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Cleaning the wound by scrubbing the site with gauze is not an appropriate intervention for a stage 3 pressure ulcer. Scrubbing can damage the fragile tissue, increase the risk of infection, and delay wound healing. Gentle cleaning with a mild solution and avoiding trauma to the wound bed are recommended.

Choice B rationale:

Massaging reddened areas with dressing changes is contraindicated for pressure ulcers, especially stage 3 ulcers. Massaging can cause further damage to the tissues and disrupt the healing process. Dressing changes should focus on maintaining a clean and moist environment to promote healing.

Choice C rationale:

(Correct Choice) Repositioning the client at least every 2 hours is a crucial intervention to prevent further pressure ulcers and facilitate wound healing. Regular repositioning helps relieve pressure on specific areas and improves blood circulation, reducing the risk of tissue breakdown and the development of new ulcers.

Choice D rationale:

Applying a heat lamp twice a day is not recommended for stage 3 pressure ulcers. Heat can increase blood flow to the area, potentially exacerbating inflammation and delaying healing. Pressure ulcers require a clean and moist environment for optimal healing.

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The nurse in the trauma unit has received a report on a client who has multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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