Safe, Effective Care Environment
26. Following a major earthquake, clients begin to arrive in an emergency department. Using the disaster triage system, which client should be treated first?
Safe, Effective Care Environment
26. Following a major earthquake, clients begin to arrive in an emergency department. Using the disaster triage system, which client should be treated first?
. Client with an open pneumothorax and severe dyspnea.
. Client with major head trauma; pupils fixed and dilated.
. Client with a closed fracture of the femur.
. Client with multiple abrasions and contusions.
Test-Taking Tip
Memorize the color-coded disaster triage system: black = dead; red = emergency; yellow = caution; and green = go.
Content Area: Adult Health, Triage; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Safe and Effective Care Environment/Safety and Infection Control/Emergency Response Plan
Safe, Effective Care Environment
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Answer 1 is correct because a client color-coded red (emergency) is the first priority. This client has a life-threatening problem that needs immediate action. Answer 2 is incorrect because this client would be color-coded black (dead) and is nonsalvageable. Answer 3 is incorrect because this client would be color-coded yellow (caution), and is the second priority level because the fracture is closed. Answer 4 is incorrect because this client would be color-coded green (walking wounded) and would be the third priority. Evaluation would be delayed.