CEN Trauma Emergencies 2

Question 1

A patient sustains a gunshot wound to the abdomen with evisceration of bowel through the wound. What is the correct initial management of the eviscerated bowel?

Accepted Answer

Cover with a moist, sterile dressing

Answer

Eviscerated bowel should be covered with a moist, sterile dressing to prevent desiccation and contamination while the patient is prepared for surgical repair.

Question 2

Which fracture pattern is associated with massive pelvic hemorrhage and hemodynamic instability?

Accepted Answer

Open-book pelvic fracture (AP compression injury)

Answer

An open-book pelvis (AP compression) disrupts the pelvic ring and stretches or tears the pelvic venous plexus and iliac vessels, causing massive hemorrhage.

Question 3

The 'lethal triad' in trauma refers to which three conditions?

Accepted Answer

Hypothermia, acidosis, and coagulopathy

Answer

The lethal triad of trauma—hypothermia, acidosis, and coagulopathy—creates a self-perpetuating cycle that leads to exsanguination if not interrupted.

Question 4

A patient has a zone II penetrating neck injury with active bleeding. Which is the priority intervention?

Accepted Answer

Direct pressure and airway management

Answer

For any penetrating neck injury with active hemorrhage, direct pressure to control bleeding combined with airway management is the immediate priority before any imaging or surgical planning.

Question 5

A patient has a suspected tension pneumothorax in the field. What is the prehospital treatment?

Accepted Answer

Needle thoracostomy at the 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line

Answer

Prehospital needle thoracostomy (14–16g needle at 2nd ICS, MCL) is the emergency intervention for suspected tension pneumothorax to relieve pressure.

CEN - Certified Emergency Nurse Practice Test

CEN - Certified Emergency Nurse Practice Test

CEN Trauma Emergencies 2