A school-age child has been bitten on the leg by a large snake ...

[tichca]

A school-age child has been bitten on the leg by a large snake that may be poisonous. During transport to an emergency facility, what should the care include?
 
  a. Apply ice to the snakebite.
  b. Immobilize the leg with a splint.
  c. Place a loose tourniquet distal to the bite.
  d. Apply warm compresses to the snakebite.

Question 2

The nurse is teaching a nursing student about standard precautions. Which statement made by the student indicates a need for further teaching?
 
  a. I will use precautions when I give an infant oral care.
  b. I will use precautions when I change an infant's diaper.
  c. I will use precautions when I come in contact with blood and body fluids.
  d. I will use precautions when administering oral medications to a school-age child.

[fwbard]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The leg should be immobilized. Ice decreases blood flow to the area, which allows the venom to work more destruction and decreases the effect of antivenin on the natural immune mechanisms. A loose tourniquet is placed proximal, not distal, to the area of the bite to delay the flow of lymph. This can delay movement of the venom into the peripheral circulation. The tourniquet should be applied so that a pulse can be felt distal to the bite. Warmth increases circulation to the area and helps the toxin into the peripheral circulation.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Standard precautions involve the use of barrier protection (personal protective equipment PPE), such as gloves, goggles, a gown, or a mask, to prevent contamination from (1) blood; (2) all body fluids, secretions, and excretions except sweat, regardless of whether they contain visible blood; (3) nonintact skin; and (4) mucous membranes. Precautions should be taken when giving oral care, when changing diapers, and when coming in contact with blood and body fluids. Further teaching is needed if the student indicates the need to use precautions when administering an oral medication to a school-age child.

[tichca]

Excellent

[smrtceo]

TYSM