What nursing assessment and care holds the highest priority in the initial care of a child with a major burn injury?
A) Establishing and maintaining the child's airway
B) Establishing and maintaining intravenous access
C) Inserting a catheter to monitor hourly urine output
D) Inserting a nasogastric tube into the stomach to supply adequate nutrition

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The highest priority in the initial care of a child with a major burn injury is establishing and maintaining the child's airway. Burns can cause swelling of the airway, leading to respiratory distress or even failure. Therefore, ensuring the child's airway is patent is crucial. Once the airway is secured, other assessments and interventions can be performed, such as establishing intravenous access for fluid and medication administration, monitoring urine output, and providing adequate nutrition.

What Nursing Assessment and Care Holds the Highest Priority in the Initial