TNCC - Trauma Nurse Core Curriculum Initial Assessment and Triage Questions and Answers

Question 1

During the primary survey of a trauma patient, which assessment is completed first after an initial 'across-the-room' observation identifies no uncontrolled external hemorrhage?

Accepted Answer

Airway and alertness with cervical spine stabilization

Answer

Circulation and control of bleeding

Answer

Breathing and ventilation

Answer

Disability and neurologic status

Question 2

A patient arrives with multiple injuries after a high-speed motor vehicle collision. During the 'C' component (Circulation) of the primary survey, which finding requires immediate intervention?

Accepted Answer

A weak, thready radial pulse at a rate of 110 beats/min

Answer

Abrasions to the bilateral forearms

Answer

Capillary refill of 4 seconds in the lower extremities

Answer

A closed, deformed right femur

Question 3

You are the triage nurse in the emergency department during a mass casualty incident (MCI). A victim is able to walk to the designated 'green' area. According to the Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment (START) method, what is the next immediate action for this patient?

Accepted Answer

Assign them to the 'minor' (green) category and have them await further instruction.

Answer

Perform a detailed head-to-toe assessment.

Answer

Assign them to the 'delayed' (yellow) category for reassessment.

Answer

Immediately transport them to a non-trauma hospital.

Question 4

Which of the following is considered a resuscitation adjunct, obtained after the primary survey (ABCDEs) is complete?

Accepted Answer

Placement of a nasogastric tube

Answer

Application of a pelvic binder

Answer

Needle decompression of a tension pneumothorax

Answer

Insertion of an oropharyngeal airway

Question 5

A trauma patient has a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 7. According to TNCC guidelines, what is the priority intervention related to this finding during the 'Disability' assessment?

Accepted Answer

Preparing for a definitive airway.

Answer

Obtaining a non-contrast head CT scan.

Answer

Administering mannitol for increased intracranial pressure.

Answer

Checking for pupillary response.

Question 6

During the 'Exposure and Environmental Control' phase of the initial assessment, the trauma nurse removes all of the patient's clothing. What is the MOST critical nursing consideration immediately following this action?

Accepted Answer

Initiating warming measures to prevent hypothermia.

Answer

Documenting all visible injuries.

Answer

Collecting clothing as evidence for law enforcement.

Answer

Performing a log roll to inspect the posterior surfaces.