A patient is brought to the ED by friends. The friends tell the nurse that the patient was using cocaine at a party. On arrival to the ED the patient is in visible distress with an axillary temperature of 40.1ºC (104.2°F)
What would be the priority nursing action for this patient?
A) Monitor cardiovascular effects.
B) Administer antipyretics.
C) Ensure airway and ventilation.
D) Prevent seizure activity.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Although all of the listed actions may be necessary for this patient's care, the priority is to establish a patent airway and adequate ventilation.
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