Discuss AACN CCRN-Adult Exam Topic 1 Question 21

A nurse admits a patient awaiting surgery for an unstable pelvic fracture following a fall in which no other injuries were sustained. The nurse should prioritize

Atransportation to radiology for an MRI.

Btype and crossmatch PRBC prior to surgery.

Cplacement of a binder across the patient's hips.

Dadministration of a sedative to reduce movement.

Suggested Answer: C

In the context of an unstable pelvic fracture, placing a binder across the patient's hips is crucial to stabilize the fracture and reduce the risk of further internal bleeding and damage. This intervention helps in temporarily stabilizing the pelvis until definitive surgical treatment can be performed. Transporting the patient for an MRI is not the immediate priority, as the primary goal is to stabilize the patient. Type and crossmatching PRBCs are important but should follow immediate stabilization measures. Administering a sedative to reduce movement can be considered, but it is not the top priority over physical stabilization of the fracture. Reference: = CCRN Exam Handbook, AACN Adult CCRN Certification Review Course

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15 comments · newest first

Tonette 2 months ago

Binder first, then we can focus on blood work.

Tasia 2 months ago

I feel like a sedative could help, but not the priority here.

Corinne 2 months ago

True, but stabilizing first is key. Surgery is next.

Ashanti 3 months ago

But what about type and crossmatch? Blood loss is a risk.

Justine 3 months ago

Agreed! It helps prevent further injury.

Mary 3 months ago

I think placement of a binder is crucial. It stabilizes the fracture.

Dong 3 months ago

Isn't a sedative risky with an unstable fracture?

Shonda 3 months ago

Totally with C, can't risk further injury.

Alishia 4 months ago

Wait, why not A? An MRI could be crucial too!

Margret 5 months ago

I think B is more important, need to prep for surgery.

My 5 months ago

Definitely C, gotta stabilize that pelvis!

Sarina 6 months ago

I’m torn between the binder and the sedative. I know movement can worsen injuries, but I wonder if we should stabilize first?

Peter 6 months ago

I practiced a similar question where we had to prioritize interventions for trauma patients. I think the binder is definitely a priority here.

Barb 6 months ago

I’m not entirely sure, but I feel like type and crossmatch might be more critical if there’s a risk of bleeding during surgery.

Susana 6 months ago

I think I remember something about stabilizing pelvic fractures being really important, so maybe the binder is the right choice?

AACN CCRN-Adult Exam - Topic 1 Question 21 Discussion