the nurse is performing triage on a group of clients in the emergency department which of the following clients should the nurse see first

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2023

1. The nurse is performing triage on a group of clients in the emergency department. Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?

A. A 12-year-old oozing blood from a laceration on the left thumb due to a cut from a rusty metal can
B. A 19-year-old with a fever of 103.8°F who is able to identify her sister but not the place and time
C. A 49-year-old with a compound fracture of the right leg who is complaining of severe pain
D. A 65-year-old with a flushed face, dry mucous membranes, and a blood sugar of 470 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A 19-year-old with a fever of 103.8°F who is confused and unable to orient to place and time likely has a severe infection or a serious medical condition affecting the central nervous system. This client needs immediate attention as altered mental status combined with a high fever can indicate a life-threatening situation. Choices A, C, and D present important conditions that require medical care, but they are not as urgent as the 19-year-old with a high fever and confusion. The 12-year-old with a laceration may require treatment for bleeding and a tetanus shot, the 49-year-old with a compound fracture needs urgent orthopedic intervention, and the 65-year-old with a high blood sugar is concerning for hyperglycemia but can wait momentarily compared to the client with a fever and altered mental status.

2. What are the signs of opioid withdrawal, and how should it be managed?

A. Sweating, nausea; administer methadone
B. Muscle cramps, vomiting; administer naloxone
C. Tremors, sweating; administer buprenorphine
D. Fever, agitation; provide sedatives

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The signs of opioid withdrawal typically include sweating and nausea. The correct management approach involves administering methadone to alleviate the symptoms. Choice B is incorrect because naloxone is used to reverse opioid overdose, not for managing withdrawal symptoms. Choice C is incorrect as buprenorphine is typically used to treat opioid addiction, not just withdrawal symptoms. Choice D is incorrect as sedatives are not the primary treatment for opioid withdrawal.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for surgery in the morning. The nurse learns that the client has decided not to have surgery even though they have already signed the informed consent form. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Ignore the client's decision and proceed
B. Report the situation to the provider
C. Ask the family to convince the client
D. Reassess the need for surgery with the client

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take is to report the client's decision to the provider who obtained informed consent. This ensures that the provider is informed of the client's change in decision and can discuss the situation further with the client. Choice A is incorrect as ignoring the client's decision is not appropriate and goes against the principles of patient autonomy. Choice C is incorrect because involving the family in convincing the client can be coercive and may not respect the client's autonomy. Choice D is incorrect because the nurse should not re-sign the informed consent form without the client's consent and a discussion with the provider.

4. What are the risk factors for pressure ulcer development?

A. Immobility and poor nutrition
B. Obesity and diabetes
C. Dehydration and malnutrition
D. Use of assistive devices and prolonged bedrest

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: The correct answer is immobility and poor nutrition. Immobility can lead to constant pressure on certain areas of the body, while poor nutrition can impair tissue repair and regeneration, both contributing to the development of pressure ulcers. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while obesity, diabetes, dehydration, malnutrition, use of assistive devices, and prolonged bedrest can impact skin integrity and wound healing, they are not the primary risk factors specifically associated with pressure ulcer development.

5. A client with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Apply lotion between the toes
B. Wear shoes that fit properly
C. Walk barefoot at home
D. Apply ice to the feet daily

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Wear shoes that fit properly.' In peripheral arterial disease (PAD), it is crucial to wear shoes that fit well to prevent foot injuries. Choice A is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can increase the risk of infection. Choice C is incorrect since walking barefoot at home can lead to injuries, especially in individuals with PAD. Choice D is incorrect as applying ice to the feet daily can further reduce blood flow to the extremities, worsening the condition in PAD.