A nurse is caring for a client brought to the Emergency Department as one of the first victims of a train accident. The nurse assesses the client, noting a respiratory rate of 38, a weak, rapid pulse, and uncontrolled bleeding. Using NATO guidelines, the nurse assigns which priority tag?
Red tag
Black tag
Green tag
Yellow tag
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: Red tag
A red tag is assigned to patients who require immediate medical attention and intervention to survive. These patients have life-threatening injuries but have a high chance of survival if treated promptly. In this scenario, the client has a respiratory rate of 38, a weak and rapid pulse, and uncontrolled bleeding. These symptoms indicate severe physiological distress and potential shock, necessitating immediate intervention to prevent death. According to NATO triage guidelines, such critical conditions warrant a red tag to prioritize urgent care1.
Choice B: Black tag
A black tag is used for patients who are deceased or have injuries so severe that survival is unlikely even with immediate medical intervention. This category is also known as “expectant” and is used to allocate resources to those with a higher chance of survival. The client in this scenario, despite having severe symptoms, is not described as being beyond the possibility of survival, thus a black tag would not be appropriate1.
Choice C: Green tag
A green tag is assigned to patients with minor injuries who can wait for medical treatment without immediate risk to life. These patients are often referred to as “walking wounded.” The client’s symptoms of a high respiratory rate, weak and rapid pulse, and uncontrolled bleeding are far too severe to be classified under this category. Assigning a green tag would delay critical care, potentially leading to fatal outcomes1.
Choice D: Yellow tag
A yellow tag is for patients who have serious injuries but whose treatment can be delayed without immediate risk to life. These patients need medical attention but are stable enough to wait for a short period. Given the client’s symptoms, particularly the uncontrolled bleeding and signs of shock, delaying treatment could result in rapid deterioration. Therefore, a yellow tag would not be suitable in this case1.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Decreasing bright lights can help alleviate discomfort for the client, especially if they are experiencing photophobia, which is common in meningitis. However, this action does not address the immediate need to prevent the spread of infection. While it is a supportive measure, it is not the first priority in managing a client with suspected meningitis.
Choice B reason:
Implementing droplet precautions is the first priority when a client presents with symptoms suggestive of meningitis, such as a severe headache, stiff neck, and positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs. Meningitis can be caused by bacterial infections that are highly contagious and spread through respiratory droplets. Initiating droplet precautions helps prevent the transmission of the infection to other clients and healthcare workers, making it the most critical initial action.
Choice C reason:
Initiating IV access is important for administering medications and fluids, but it is not the first priority. Ensuring the safety of others by implementing droplet precautions takes precedence. Once precautions are in place, the nurse can proceed with establishing IV access to facilitate further treatment.
Choice D reason:
Administering antibiotics is crucial in the treatment of bacterial meningitis, but it should be done after droplet precautions are in place to prevent the spread of infection. Prompt antibiotic therapy is essential, but the initial step must focus on infection control measures to protect others from exposure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Encouraging clients to make decisions without considering their cultural or social background is not aligned with the principles of client-centered care. Understanding and respecting clients’ cultural and social backgrounds are essential for providing holistic and effective care.
Choice B reason:
Ensuring that care plans are tailored to the individual needs and preferences of clients within their community is the cornerstone of client-centered, community-based care. This approach recognizes the unique circumstances of each client and aims to provide personalized care that meets their specific needs and preferences.
Choice C reason:
Focusing primarily on the medical treatment of diseases within a hospital setting is not consistent with community-based care. Community-based care emphasizes providing healthcare services in the community, addressing social determinants of health, and promoting overall well-being outside of hospital settings.
Choice D reason:
Prioritizing the efficiency of healthcare delivery over patient satisfaction and outcomes is contrary to the principles of client-centered care. While efficiency is important, the primary focus should be on achieving positive health outcomes and ensuring patient satisfaction.