The nurse is triaging several children as they present to the emergency room after a school bus accident. Which child requires the most immediate intervention by the nurse?
A 12-year-old reporting neck, arm, and lower back discomfort.
An 8-year-old with a full leg air splint for a possible broken tibia.
A 6-year-old with multiple superficial lacerations of all extremities.
An 11-year-old with a headache, nausea, and projectile vomiting.
The Correct Answer is D
A. A 12-year-old reporting neck, arm, and lower back discomfort:
- This child is reporting discomfort, which is concerning, but it doesn't indicate an immediate life-threatening condition. However, a thorough assessment is needed to rule out any serious injuries, especially to the spine.
B. An 8-year-old with a full leg air splint for a possible broken tibia:
- While a possible broken tibia requires attention, it is not as immediately critical as symptoms such as projectile vomiting. Splinting can help stabilize the limb, but it is not an emergency that requires immediate attention compared to potential neurological issues.
C. A 6-year-old with multiple superficial lacerations of all extremities:
- Superficial lacerations, although they require care, are generally not immediately life-threatening. The child needs appropriate wound care and assessment for any deeper injuries, but this can be addressed in a timely manner without immediate urgency.
D. An 11-year-old with a headache, nausea, and projectile vomiting:
- This is the most concerning presentation among the options. Headache, nausea, and projectile vomiting could be indicative of a severe head injury, and these neurological symptoms require urgent evaluation to assess for conditions such as a concussion, intracranial bleed, or increased intracranial pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The client's serum potassium level is elevated at 6.0 mEq/L (6.0 mmol/L), which is above the normal reference range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L).
Hyperkalemia can have significant cardiac implications, including the potential for life-threatening dysrhythmias. Therefore, close monitoring of the serum potassium level is crucial to assess the effectiveness of interventions and ensure that potassium levels are within a safe range.
While monitoring glucose levels before and after meals is important for clients receiving insulin therapy, in this scenario, the primary concern is the elevated potassium level.
The nurse should prioritize frequent assessment of the serum potassium level to guide appropriate management and prevent complications associated with hyperkalemia.
Monitoring and documenting strict intake and output are important for assessing fluid balance and renal function, but in this case, the elevated potassium level takes precedence as it poses a more immediate risk to the client's well-being.
Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) daily may be indicated in some cases of hyperkalemia, as certain ECG changes can be associated with elevated potassium levels. However, the more critical aspect is monitoring the potassium level itself, as ECG changes can occur rapidly and may not always be detectable on a daily basis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect- While it's important for UAPs to report changes in a client's condition, the immediate priority is to assess and address the deteriorating condition of the client. The nurse's first action should be to stop the current care being provided and assess the client.
B) Correct- In this situation, the priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of the client. The client's deteriorated condition needs to be assessed promptly by a licensed nurse to determine the appropriate interventions. Stopping the care being provided by the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) allows the nurse to focus on the client's immediate needs.
C) Incorrect- Administering oral medications is not the immediate priority in this situation. The client's deteriorating condition takes precedence over administering medications.
D) Incorrect- While investigating the situation and addressing communication gaps is important, the first priority is to assess and address the client's current condition. The nurse needs to take immediate action to ensure the client's safety and well-being.
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