Final answer:
In managing an adolescent patient post motor-vehicle accident, a nurse should be prepared to administer levalbuterol, obtain consent for pericardiocentesis, prepare for chest tube insertion, and evaluate appropriate patient positioning, while ensuring team coordination and patient safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse in a pediatric emergency department must prioritize the identification and treatment of life-threatening injuries and conditions when caring for an adolescent patient involved in a motor-vehicle crash. In this scenario, actions such as administering a levalbuterol metered dose inhaler, obtaining consent for pericardiocentesis, and preparing for chest tube insertion are potential interventions that may be necessary based on the patient's condition. It is crucial to place the patient in an appropriate position that supports their medical needs; however, the supine position may not always be suitable, especially if the patient has respiratory issues or is at risk of aspiration.
The nursing team should ensure that the patient's identity, surgical site, and procedure consent is verified, as well as that the patient's airway and risk of aspiration have been evaluated. Among the treatment options, administering levalbuterol would aid in relieving bronchospasm in asthma or other obstructive airway diseases. Since the patient has been in a serious accident, the team should be prepared for further procedures such as pericardiocentesis, if indicated by signs of cardiac tamponade, and chest tube insertion in case of pneumothorax or hemothorax. Therefore, coordinating with the medical team, including the surgeon, nurse, and anaesthesia professional, is key to addressing life-threatening conditions and discussing key concerns for patient recovery and care.