Several clients check into the emergency department at the same time. Which client should be seen first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A client who is status post tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy is at risk for hemorrhage up to 14 days after surgery. Because of the location of the surgery, hemorrhage can lead to life-threatening airway compromise. The client who had a tonsillectomy 3 days ago and has signs of hemorrhage (eg, restlessness, frequent swallowing or clearing of the throat, vomiting of blood, pallor) should be seen first. The client may require surgery to cauterize the bleeding vessel(s). To decrease the risk of hemorrhage, the nurse should educate the client to limit coughing, gargling, and clearing of the throat. (Option A) Persistent vomiting and diarrhea in an 8-month-old would warrant concern for dehydration. IV fluid resuscitation may be required. This client, with potential circulatory compromise, should be seen second. (Option B) A foreign body lodged in the nose does not compromise the airway and therefore is not life threatening. This client should be seen last. (Option D) A second-degree burn is not full thickness and is not considered life threatening. This client needs treatment for pain and infection prevention and should be seen third. Educational objective: A client who is status post tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy is at risk for hemorrhage and life-threatening airway compromise up to 14 days after surgery. Signs and symptoms of hemorrhage after tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy include restlessness, frequent swallowing or throat-clearing, vomiting of blood, and pallor.

Several Clients Check into the Emergency Department at the Same