Question

The nurse on the clinical unit is assigned to four patients. Which patient should she assess first?

a. patient with a skull fracture whose nose is bleeding
b. elderly patient with a stroke who is confused and whose daughter is present
c. patient with meningitis who is suddenly agitated and reporting a HA of 10 on a 0 to 10 scale
d. patient who had a craniotomy for a brain tumor who is now 3 days postoperative and has had continued emesis

Answer 1

The nurse should assess the patient with a skull fracture whose nose is bleeding first.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this scenario, the nurse should assess the patient with a skull fracture whose nose is bleeding first. This patient has a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. Bleeding from the nose can indicate a serious head injury and the nurse should prioritize assessing and managing this patient's condition.