A patient arrives in the emergency department with a bullet wound to the left frontal lobe. The patient is comatose on arrival. What is the nursing care priority at this time?
a. Evaluate neurological status.
b. Maintain an open airway.
c. Maintain body temperature.
d. Evaluate fluid balance.
ANS: B
Remember the ABCs: airway is always the first priority. A, C, and D are also important but are not helpful if the patient does not have a patent airway.
You might also like to view...
The nurse has reinforced medication teaching with a patient who has rheumatoid arthritis. Which of these medications, if stated by the patient, indicates to the nurse correct understanding of symptom control with a medication?
a. "Digoxin." b. "Ibuprofen." c. "Morphine." d. "Penicillin."
A patient who is taking furosemide [Lasix] and digoxin will begin taking captopril [Capoten]. The nurse is providing information about the drug. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
a. "I can use acetaminophen for analgesia if needed." b. "I should stop taking the Lasix about a week before starting the Capoten." c. "I should take this medication on a full stomach." d. "I will need to have blood tests done every 2 weeks for a few months."
Your supervisor compliments you on your ongoing ability to integrate and apply the knowledge, skills, judgment, and personal attitudes required to practice safely and ethically. The supervisor is commenting on which of your qualities?
a. Authority c. Responsibility b. Competence d. Right
Which of the following are the elements of evidence-based practice? (Select all that apply.)
a. Patient preferences b. Basic needs c. Best research evidence d. Nurse's clinical expertise e. Hypothesis