Pharmacology and the Nursing Process Test Bank Related

Review Pharmacology and the Nursing Process Test Bank related questions and content

An adult is brought in by ambulance after a motor vehicle accident. He is unconscious, on a backboard with his neck immobilized. He is bleeding profusely from a large gash on his right thigh. What is the first action the nurse should take?

  • A. Stop the bleeding
  • B. Take his vital signs
  • C. Check his airway
  • D. Find out what happened from eyewitnesses NEUROLOGIC DISORDERS
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Check his airway. Ensuring a patent airway is the priority in trauma care to maintain oxygenation and ventilation. With the patient unconscious and bleeding profusely, airway obstruction or compromise is a critical concern. By checking the airway first, the nurse can quickly assess and address any immediate threats to the patient's breathing. Stopping the bleeding (choice A) can be addressed once the airway is secured. Taking vital signs (choice B) and finding out what happened from eyewitnesses (choice D) can be important but are secondary to ensuring the patient's airway is clear and unobstructed.