The practical nurse (PN) administers an injection using a syringe with a retractable needle. After the needle is removed from the client's skin, the needle does not retract, and the PN gets stuck in the finger with the used needle. What action should the PN take first?
Explain the occurrence to the client.
Observe the appearance of the injection site.
Call the charge nurse to the room.
Cleanse the finger with soap and water.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is choice D. Cleanse the finger with soap and water.
Choice A rationale:
Explaining the occurrence to the client is not the first action the PN should take in this situation. The priority is to address the potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens and ensure the PN's safety.
Choice B rationale:
Observing the appearance of the injection site is important for routine assessment but is not the first action the PN should take after getting stuck with the used needle. Immediate action to clean the wound site is essential to reduce the risk of infection.
Choice C rationale:
While notifying the charge nurse about the incident is important, it should not be the first action taken. The PN's safety should be addressed first by cleansing the finger.
Choice D rationale:
The PN should first cleanse the finger with soap and water immediately after getting stuck with the used needle. This action helps reduce the risk of infection and contamination. After cleansing, the PN can follow the facility's protocol for reporting incidents and seek necessary medical attention if required.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is the best action for the PN to implement because it addresses the client's question and provides an opportunity to educate the client about fecal diversion surgery and its outcomes. The PN should review the type, location, and appearance of the surgical opening (stoma) and explain how it will affect the client's elimination and body image.

B. Verifying that the client had nothing by mouth (NPO) for the past 24 hours is not relevant to the client's question and does not provide any information or support.
C. Asking the client if he finished the bowel sterilization prescription is not relevant to the client's question and does not provide any information or support.
D. Determining if this is the first indwelling catheter the client has had is not relevant to the client's question and does not provide any information or support.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is the best action for the PN to take because it provides immediate relief for the client's pain, which can be severe and debilitating in Herpes zoster. The PN should also assess the client's pain level, location, and characteristics and document the response to the medication.

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.