The public health nurse is assigned to the population of clients in an inner city community. The nurse identifies which of the following as a priority intervention.

Choice A reason: Continuing with the triage process is not an immediate intervention that needs to be taken by the triage nurse, as it may expose more people to the chemical hazard and worsen the situation. The triage nurse should stop the triage process and alert the emergency department staff and management about the potential contamination. The triage nurse should also follow the facility's emergency preparedness plan and protocols for dealing with chemical spills.

Choice B reason: Evacuating the emergency department is an immediate intervention that needs to be taken by the triage nurse, as it helps to protect the safety and health of the staff, clients, and visitors. The triage nurse should assist with evacuating everyone from the emergency department to a safe and designated area, away from the source of contamination. The triage nurse should also ensure that everyone is accounted for and that no one re-enters the emergency department until it is cleared by the authorities.

Choice C reason: Placing the client in a private room is not an immediate intervention that needs to be taken by the triage nurse, as it may not prevent the spread of contamination or provide adequate care to the client. The client who have been exposed to a chemical spill should not be moved to another area of the facility, as they may contaminate other people or surfaces along the way. The client should be kept in a separate and isolated area until they are decontaminated and assessed.

Choice D reason: Treating the client after contaminated items are removed is not an immediate intervention that needs to be taken by the triage nurse, as it may delay or compromise the care of the client. The client who has been exposed to a chemical spill should be treated as soon as possible, as some chemicals can cause serious or irreversible damage to the skin, eyes, lungs, or other organs. The triage nurse should provide basic life support measures, such as airway management, oxygen therapy, or bleeding control while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The triage nurse should also remove any contaminated clothing or jewelry from the client and place them in a sealed bag.

Choice E reason: Sending the client and EMS crew to decontamination is an immediate intervention that needs to be taken by the triage nurse, as it helps to remove or neutralize any harmful chemicals from their skin, hair, or clothing. The triage nurse should direct or escort the client and EMS crew to a designated decontamination area or unit, where they will undergo a thorough washing process with water and soap or other solutions. The triage nurse should also monitor their vital signs and symptoms during and after decontamination.

Choice A reason: "Move objects away from the client." This instruction should be included in the teaching. It is a safety measure that can prevent injury or harm to the client during a seizure. Moving objects away from the client can create more space and avoid contact with sharp, hard, or hot items.

Choice B reason: "Restrain the client." This instruction should not be included in the teaching. It is a harmful action that can worsen or prolong the seizure. Restraining the client can interfere with their natural movements, cause pain or discomfort, or damage their muscles or joints.

Choice C reason: "Place the client on his back." This instruction should not be included in the teaching. It is a dangerous position that can compromise the client's airway and breathing. Placing the client on his back can increase the risk of choking, aspiration, or suffocation.

Choice D reason: "Insert a padded tongue blade into the client's mouth." This instruction should not be included in the teaching. It is an outdated and ineffective practice that can cause more harm than good. Inserting a padded tongue blade into the client's mouth can damage their teeth, gums, tongue, or lips, or block their airway. Contrary to popular belief, it is impossible for a person to swallow their tongue during a seizure.