The client is admitted into the emergency department with diaphoresis, pale clammy skin, and BP of 90/70. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
- A. Start an IV with an 18-gauge catheter.
- B. Administer dopamine intravenous infusion.
- C. Obtain arterial blood gases (ABGs).
- D. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hypovolemic shock (suggested by symptoms) requires immediate IV access for fluid resuscitation. Dopamine requires IV access, ABGs are diagnostic, and urinary catheter monitors output but is secondary.
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A vat of chemicals spilled onto the client. Which action should the occupational health nurse implement first?
- A. Have the client stand under a shower while removing all clothes.
- B. Check the material safety data sheets for the antidote.
- C. Administer oxygen by nasal cannula.
- D. Collect a sample of the chemicals in the vat for analysis.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Removing clothes and showering decontaminates the skin, preventing further chemical absorption. MSDS, oxygen, and sampling are secondary.
The ED nurse is caring for a male client admitted with carbon monoxide poisoning. Which intervention requires the nurse to notify the rapid response team?
- A. The client has expectorated black sputum.
- B. The client reports trying to kill himself.
- C. The client’s pulse oximeter reading is 94%.
- D. The client has stridor and reports dizziness.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Stridor indicates airway obstruction, and dizziness suggests worsening CO toxicity, requiring rapid response. Black sputum, suicidal intent, and 94% SpO2 are less acute.
The charge nurse has been notified that a disaster has occurred and that all possible clients should be discharged so the floor can receive the casualties. Which client should not be discharged?
- A. The 13-year-old client who is scheduled for a tonsillectomy.
- B. The 42-year-old client scheduled for an abdominal aorta aneurysm dissection.
- C. The 76-year-old client diagnosed with a pulmonary embolus whose INR is 2.9.
- D. The 80-year-old client who is refusing to assist in activities of daily living.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A pulmonary embolus with INR 2.9 (therapeutic) requires ongoing anticoagulation and monitoring, precluding discharge. Tonsillectomy, aneurysm surgery, and ADL refusal are less acute.
The charge nurse is making assignments. Which client should be assigned to the most experienced nurse?
- A. The client diagnosed with a snake bite who is receiving antivenin.
- B. The client who swallowed a lye preparation and is being discharged.
- C. The client who is angry the suicide attempt did not work.
- D. The client who required skin grafting after a chemical spill.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Antivenin administration for snake bites requires close monitoring for anaphylaxis and dosing, best handled by an experienced nurse. Lye ingestion discharge, psychiatric issues, and grafts are less acute.
The nurse and an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) are caring for a group of clients on a medical floor. Which action by the UAP warrants intervention by the nurse?
- A. The UAP places a urine specimen in a biohazard bag in the hallway.
- B. The UAP uses the alcohol foam hand cleanser after removing gloves.
- C. The UAP puts soiled linen in a plastic bag in the client’s room.
- D. The UAP obtains a disposable stethoscope for a client in an isolation room.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Urine specimens are not biohazardous unless visibly bloody; placing in a biohazard bag is incorrect and requires intervention. Hand cleansing, linen handling, and stethoscope use are appropriate.