The trauma nurse is performing a primary survey on a client who suffered trauma. Which assessment does the nurse determine will take the highest priority during the survey?

Question

A) Stability of the cervical spine
B) Head and neck for severe bleeding
C) Patency of airway
D) Ability to breathe

Answer 1

C) Patency of airway

Explanation: A) The primary purpose for assessing the client's airway during the primary survey is to determine the patency of the airway. While stability of the cervical spine, severe bleeding in the head and neck, and the client's breathing ability are also included in the primary assessment, assessing the client's airway is priority.
B) The primary purpose for assessing the client's airway during the primary survey is to determine the patency of the airway. While stability of the cervical spine, severe bleeding in the head and neck, and the client's breathing ability are also included in the primary assessment, assessing the client's airway is priority.
C) The primary purpose for assessing the client's airway during the primary survey is to determine the patency of the airway. While stability of the cervical spine, severe bleeding in the head and neck, and the client's breathing ability are also included in the primary assessment, assessing the client's airway is priority.
D) The primary purpose for assessing the client's airway during the primary survey is to determine the patency of the airway. While stability of the cervical spine, severe bleeding in the head and neck, and the client's breathing ability are also included in the primary assessment, assessing the client's airway is priority.