Critical Care Nursing Questions Related

Review Critical Care Nursing Questions related questions and content

A patient is admitted to the emergency department (ED) after falling through the ice while ice skating. Which assessment will the nurse obtain first?

  • A. Heart rate.
  • B. Breath sounds.
  • C. Body temperature.
  • D. Level of consciousness.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Body temperature. In a patient who has fallen through the ice, hypothermia is a major concern due to exposure to cold water. Assessing body temperature first is crucial to determine the severity of hypothermia and guide immediate interventions. Heart rate, breath sounds, and level of consciousness can be affected by hypothermia but are secondary assessments. Assessing body temperature is the priority to address the most life-threatening issue first.