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

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clear drainage from the ear following a head injury could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid leak, which can be confirmed by testing for glucose in the fluid. This is the priority nursing action as it could impact the client's prognosis and treatment plan. While obtaining information on chronic allergies, assessing for recent middle ear infection, and irrigation may be important, they are not the priority in this situation.

The Client Has Been Brought Via Ambulance to the Emergency