A patient sustained multiple fractures and contusions when hit by a car while walking across the street. He says, "How can I be hurt so badly? The car barely hit me." How should the nurse respond?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should explain to the patient that the car's movement and energy were transferred to the patient's body upon impact, resulting in numerous fractures and contusions. This explanation helps the patient understand the severity of the injuries sustained even if the car was moving at a slow pace. Option B and D are incorrect because the information provided about the patient's diabetes or age has no direct correlation to the injury severity. Option C is incorrect because assuming that the patient doesn't remember the accident can be perceived as dismissive or disrespectful.

A Patient Sustained Multiple Fractures and Contusions When Hit by a Car