The nurse is caring for a burn victim during the emergent phase. Assessment findings include white charred leathery wounds over 72% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA). Following intubation and mechanical ventilation, what is the priority intervention?
Fluid resuscitation
Transfer to a burn center
Application of sterile dressings
Administer morphine 8mg IV.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Fluid resuscitation
Burns covering a large TBSA result in massive fluid loss due to increased capillary permeability, leading to hypovolemic shock. Fluid resuscitation with lactated Ringer’s solution using the Parkland formula is the priority to restore intravascular volume and prevent organ failure.
B. Transfer to a burn center
While this patient requires specialized burn care, the immediate priority is fluid resuscitation. After initial stabilization, transfer to a burn center can be arranged.
C. Application of sterile dressings
Wound care is important, but it is not the priority in the emergent phase. Restoring circulation and preventing shock take precedence.
D. Administer morphine 8 mg IV
Pain management is crucial, but it is secondary to restoring intravascular volume and preventing hypovolemic shock.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Respiratory rate 24 and bloody drainage in the NG tube
While an increased respiratory rate and bloody drainage are concerning, they may not indicate an immediate life-threatening situation compared to the other options.
B. Client is oriented to name and place but not the date
This suggests some level of confusion or altered mental status, which is important but not necessarily an immediate threat.
C. Blood pressure 40/48 and urine output of 24 mL/hour
This indicates severe hypotension and inadequate perfusion, which are signs of ongoing shock and possibly continued internal bleeding. Immediate intervention is critical.
D. Hypo-active bowel sounds and tachycardia
Hypo-active bowel sounds and tachycardia are concerning and suggestive of shock, but they are not as immediately life-threatening as severely low blood pressure and low urine output.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Follows an object with eyes without nystagmus or strabismus
Cranial nerves III (oculomotor), IV (trochlear), and VI (abducens) control eye movement. CN XI does not control eye movement.
B. Moves the tongue out midline without tremors or deviation
Cranial nerve XII (hypoglossal nerve) controls tongue movement.
C. Moves the head and shoulders against resistance with equal strength
Cranial nerve XI (spinal accessory nerve) controls the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles. If intact, the client can shrug shoulders and turn the head against resistance with equal strength.
D. Demonstrates full range of the neck
Full range of motion in the neck involves multiple muscles, not just those innervated by CN XI.
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