The emergency department has been notified of a potential ...

[silviawilliams41]

The emergency department has been notified of a potential bioterrorist attack. The nurse assigned to the department realizes that the most important task for safety in this situation is to
 
  a. Carry out the role and responsibilities of the nurse quickly and efficiently.
  b. Cluster all patients with the same symptoms to a specific part of the department.
  c. Determine the biologic agent and manage all patients using Standard Precautions.
  d. Prepare for post-traumatic stress associated with this bioterrorist attack.

Question 2

The patient presents to the clinic with a family member. The family member states that the patient has been wandering around the house and mumbling. What is the first assessment the nurse should do?
 
  a. Ask the patient why she has been wandering around the house.
  b. Introduce self and ask the patient her name.
  c. Take the patient's blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiratory rate.
  d. Immediately do a complete head-to-toe neurologic assessment.

[stallen]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
It is essential to determine the agent and manage all patients who are symptomatic with the suspected or confirmed bioterrorism-related illness using Standard Precautions. For certain diseases, additional precautions may be necessary. Clustering patients may be helpful with staffing and, depending on the illness, may decrease the spread. All nurses every day should carry out their roles quickly and efficiently. Psychosocial concerns are important but are not the first priority at this moment.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Introduce self and engage the patient by asking her name to assess orientation; ask the patient why she is visiting the clinic today. Continue the assessment with vital signs and a complete workup, including a neurologic assessment.

[silviawilliams41]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[elyse44]

Excellent