Which is the priority nursing action for a child who presents in the emergency department after a motor vehicle accident with a sucking wound of the chest?
A) Placing the child in a Trendelenburg position
B) Beginning rescue breathing for the child
C) Beginning cardiac resuscitation for the child
D) Covering the child's wound with an air occlusive dressing

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The priority nursing action for a child with a sucking wound of the chest is to cover the wound with an air occlusive dressing to prevent air from being sucked into the chest cavity, which can cause a tension pneumothorax. Placing the child in a Trendelenburg position would not benefit the child in this situation. Beginning rescue breathing or cardiac resuscitation may be necessary if the child becomes unresponsive, but covering the wound should be the initial priority.

Which Is the Priority Nursing Action for a Child Who