The emergency department has been notified of a potential bioterrorism attack. Which action by the nurse is priority?
a. Monitor for specific symptoms.
b. Manage all patients using standard precautions.
c. Transport patients quickly and efficiently through the elevators.
d. Prepare for post-traumatic stress associated with this bioterrorism attack.
ANS: B
Manage all patients with suspected or confirmed bioterrorism-related illnesses using standard precautions. For certain diseases, additional precautions may be necessary. The early signs of a bioterrorism-related illness often include nonspecific symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, fever, confusion) that may persist for several days before the onset of more severe disease. Limit the transport and movement of patients to movement that is essential for treatment and care. Psychosocial concerns (post-traumatic stress) are important but are not the first priority at this moment.
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