The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client that has just arrived in the emergency department with 2nd degree thermal burns to the right thigh, lower leg and foot, and reports severe pain in the right leg. Which priority action should the PN take while caring for this patient?
Anticipate rehydration of 1000 mL/6 hr. with normal saline.
Remove clothing, cover burned area with cool damp cloth.
Completely flush burned area with water or sterile saline.
Collect data, vital signs, blood gases, height and weight.
The Correct Answer is B
The priority action for the practical nurse (PN) to take while caring for a client that has just arrived in the emergency department with 2nd degree thermal burns to the right thigh, lower leg and foot, and reports severe pain in the right leg is to remove clothing and cover the burned area with a cool damp cloth. This will help to cool the burn and reduce pain.
Anticipating rehydration of 1000 mL/6 hr. with normal saline (Option A) is an important intervention for burn patients, but it is not the first priority. Completely flushing the burned area with water or sterile saline (Option C) may be appropriate in some cases, but it is not the first intervention that should be implemented. Collecting data such as vital signs, blood gases, height and weight (Option D) is also important, but it is not the first priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
When a Rh-negative mother gives birth to a Rh-positive baby, there is a risk that the mother's immune system will develop antibodies against the Rh-positive factor. These antibodies can cross the placenta in future pregnancies and atack the Rh-positive fetus, leading to hemolytic disease of the newborn. Rho(D) immune globulin is given after delivery to prevent the formation of these antibodies. The PN should explain this to the client and encourage her to reconsider her refusal of the treatment. Answers A, B, and C are incorrect and do not provide accurate information.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The most important behaviors for the practical nurse (PN) to monitor in this situation are argumentativeness and use of profanity. These behaviors may indicate that the client is becoming agitated and may pose a risk to themselves or others. The PN should closely monitor the client's behavior and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of the client and others on the unit. The other behaviors listed may also be important to monitor, but argumentativeness and use of profanity are the most important in this situation
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