Safety and Infection Control NCLEX RN Related

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The nurse working on a medical nursing unit during an external disaster is called to assist with care for clients coming into the emergency department. Using principles of triage, the nurse should implement immediate care for a client with which injury?

  • A. Fractured tibia
  • B. Penetrating abdominal injury
  • C. Bright red bleeding from a neck wound
  • D. Open massive head injury, resulting in deep coma
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The client with bright red (arterial) bleeding from a neck wound is in 'immediate' need of treatment to save the client's life. This client is classified as an emergent (life-threatening) client and would wear a color tag of red from the triage process. A green or 'minimal' (nonurgent) designation would be given to the client with a fractured tibia, who requires intervention but who can provide self-care if needed. The client with a penetrating abdominal injury would be tagged yellow and classified as 'urgent,' requiring intervention within 60 to 120 minutes. A designation of 'expectant' would be applied to the client with massive injuries and minimal chance of survival. This client would be color-coded 'black' in the triage process. The client who is color-coded 'black' is given supportive care and pain management but is given definitive treatment last.