Question

Which action would the nurse take first when providing care for a client who has been bitten by a brown recluse spider?

A) Apply a tourniquet above the bite site
B) Cleanse the wound with soap and water
C) Apply ice to reduce swelling
D) Administer pain medication

Answer 1

The nurse should first clean the wound with soap and water and then monitor the bite site for signs of infection following a brown recluse spider bite. Therefore, the correct option is b.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first action a nurse should take when providing care for a client who has been bitten by a brown recluse spider is to cleanse the wound with soap and water. This is important to prevent infection and to remove any venom that may be present on the skin surface. After cleaning, it is essential to monitor the site of the bite for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, and pain. While applying a tourniquet, using ice, and administering pain medication may be part of the subsequent care plan, they are not the first steps to take. Disinfecting the area thoroughly with an antiseptic and monitoring for symptoms are crucial in the immediate aftermath of a brown recluse spider bite.