The nurse is caring for a client who has suffered a gunshot wound to the anterior chest. The client has been intubated and is currently being ventilated with a bag-valve device. What is the priority intervention for this client now?
Assessment of neurologic status
Obtain IV access with two large bore lines and blood for lab studies
Placement of a naso-gastric tube to decompress the stomach
Placement of an indwelling catheter (Foley) to measure urine output
The Correct Answer is B
A. Assessment of neurologic status
While neurological assessment is important, it is not the priority in this situation. The immediate priority is managing the chest wound and airway to ensure oxygenation and prevent further complications.
B. Obtain IV access with two large bore lines and blood for lab studies
IV access is important for fluid resuscitation and medication administration but is not the immediate priority compared to securing the airway and ensuring ventilation.
C. Placement of a naso-gastric tube to decompress the stomach
Although the naso-gastric tube may be necessary to decompress the stomach later, it is not the priority in the initial management of a client with a gunshot wound to the chest.
D. Placement of an indwelling catheter (Foley) to measure urine output
While measuring urine output is important for monitoring renal function and fluid balance, it is not the priority in this emergency situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Removal of the educating patient to carry an Epipen
While educating the patient about carrying an Epipen is essential in managing anaphylaxis, it is not the primary action in preventing anaphylactic shock before exposure to an allergen.
B. Assess and document for previous allergies and drug reactions prior to medication administration
Identifying and documenting allergies before administering medications or treatments helps prevent exposure to known allergens, reducing the risk of anaphylaxis.
C. Administer diphenhydramine and solumedrol IV at the first sign of allergic symptoms
These medications help in managing allergic reactions but do not prevent anaphylactic shock. Preventive measures focus on avoiding allergen exposure rather than treating symptoms after they occur.
D. Application of a red allergy bracelet on the patient’s upper extremity
This helps alert healthcare providers about allergies, but it does not prevent anaphylactic shock. It is a precautionary step rather than a primary prevention strategy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. includes the head-to-toe anterior and posterior assessment.
This describes a secondary assessment, not a primary one. The primary assessment focuses on the immediate life-threatening issues rather than a full head-to-toe examination.
B. priorities are continuing and ongoing but treatment will be deferred if the client is unstable.
In primary assessment, treatment should not be deferred in unstable clients. Immediate treatment and stabilization take priority.
C. is focused on airway maintenance and ventilation effectiveness.
As airway and ventilation are key aspects of the primary assessment (known as the "ABC" of trauma: Airway, Breathing, Circulation). However, it does not cover all of the primary assessment areas.
D. focuses on the ABCDs of the client to identify life-threatening problems.
The primary assessment is focused on identifying life-threatening problems using the ABCDs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability).
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.