A patient rescued from a house fire has soot around the mouth, a hoarse voice and increasing restlessness. Which intervention should the nurse prioritise?
Correct answer: B. Apply a non-rebreather oxygen mask and call for early airway evaluation
- A. Offer small sips of cool water
- B. Apply a non-rebreather oxygen mask and call for early airway evaluation
- C. Wait for facial swelling before preparing airway equipment
- D. Place the patient supine and encourage coughing
Explanation
Soot and hoarseness suggest inhalation injury, and airway swelling can progress rapidly. High-concentration oxygen and early airway evaluation are required; waiting for visible swelling may make later intubation difficult.
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About Critical Care and Emergency Nursing
Covers rapid assessment and stabilisation of patients with airway obstruction, respiratory failure, shock, cardiac arrest, sepsis, poisoning and major electrolyte disturbances. It includes triage, the ABCDE approach, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, ventilator and monitor care, emergency medicines and distinguishing life-threatening deterioration from stable illness.
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