Question

An unresponsive patient is brought into the emergency department after being found outside in the cold. Which is the priority intervention by the nurse? A. Assessing the patient's skin for frostbite B. Assessing respiratory status, oxygenation, and perfusion C. Hanging warmed intravenous fluids D. Applying warming blankets

Answer 1

B. Assessing respiratory status, oxygenation, and perfusion

In emergency care, the primary concern is always the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation (often referred to as the ABCs). Ensuring the patient is breathing adequately and has appropriate oxygen levels and perfusion is the top priority. Once these are secured, the nurse can then address other issues like frostbite or hypothermia with interventions such as warmed IV fluids or warming blankets.