The client has been brought via ambulance to the emergency department (ED)following a motor vehicle accident. The nurse notes that the client's ear is draining clear fluid. Which is the priority nursing action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The priority nursing action is to test the drainage for glucose because clear fluid draining from the ear following a head injury may indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which is a serious condition requiring immediate attention. Testing the fluid for glucose can help differentiate CSF from other types of ear drainage, as CSF typically contains glucose.

The Client Has Been Brought Via Ambulance to the Emergency