ATI Capstone Exam 1 Related

Review ATI Capstone Exam 1 related questions and content

A nurse is triaging clients following a mass casualty event. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?

  • A. A client who has a small circular partial-thickness burn of the left calf.
  • B. A client who has severe respiratory stridor and a deviated trachea.
  • C. A client who has a splinted open fracture of the left medial malleolus.
  • D. A client who has a massive head injury and is experiencing seizures.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The client with severe respiratory stridor and a deviated trachea should be assessed first as this indicates a compromised airway, which is a life-threatening emergency. Immediate intervention is crucial to prevent respiratory arrest. Clients with airway issues should always be the top priority in triage.
Other choices are incorrect because:
A: Small circular partial-thickness burn of the left calf is not immediately life-threatening and can be addressed after addressing more critical conditions.
C: Splinted open fracture of the left medial malleolus, while serious, does not present an immediate threat to the client's life compared to compromised airway.
D: Massive head injury and seizures are also serious, but in this scenario, the client with compromised airway takes precedence as airway issues can lead to rapid deterioration.