An adolescent is brought into the emergency department (ED) with injuries sustained from a motor vehicle crash. What should the nurse ensure while caring for this client?
A) An adequate urine output
B) Stable blood pressure
C) Stabilization of the neck and spinal cord
D) Intravenous access line
Answer: C
The danger of death from a spinal cord injury is greatest when there is damage to or transection of the upper cervical region. All people who have sustained trauma to the spine should be treated as though they have a spinal cord injury by stabilizing the neck and spinal cord. Assessment of urine output can be delayed. Assessing blood pressure is an intervention for all clients brought into the Emergency Department. An intravenous access line is necessary, but the stabilization of the neck and spinal cord is of first priority.
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