TNCC Psychosocial Aspects of Trauma 3

Question 1

A trauma patient from a different cultural background refuses blood transfusion despite life-threatening hemorrhage. The nurse's most appropriate response is:

Accepted Answer

Respect the patient's informed refusal while documenting the decision and exploring alternatives

Answer

A competent adult patient has the right to refuse treatment, including blood transfusion, even in life-threatening situations. The nurse should document the informed refusal and explore acceptable alternatives.

Question 2

Which factor most strongly predicts the development of PTSD after a traumatic injury?

Accepted Answer

Pre-existing mental health conditions and peritraumatic dissociation

Answer

Pre-existing mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, prior PTSD) and peritraumatic dissociation (dissociative symptoms during or immediately after the event) are the strongest predictors of PTSD development.

Question 3

A trauma patient becomes increasingly agitated, is pulling at IV lines, and is attempting to leave the emergency department against medical advice. The nurse should first:

Accepted Answer

Use verbal de-escalation techniques to establish rapport and identify the cause of agitation

Answer

Verbal de-escalation should always be attempted first for agitated patients, as agitation may be caused by pain, hypoxia, TBI, substance withdrawal, or psychological distress — each requiring different management.

Question 4

The nurse suspects elder abuse in a 78-year-old trauma patient who presents with multiple bruises in various stages of healing and appears fearful. The nurse is LEGALLY required to:

Accepted Answer

Report the suspected abuse to adult protective services as mandated by law

Answer

Healthcare providers are mandatory reporters of suspected elder abuse in all U.S. states. Suspected abuse must be reported to adult protective services; proof is not required for reporting.

Question 5

Which intervention best promotes psychological resilience in a trauma patient during the acute hospitalization?

Accepted Answer

Giving the patient as much control and choice as possible within their care

Answer

Restoring a sense of control and agency — through choices about their care, scheduling, and environment — promotes psychological resilience and reduces the sense of helplessness that contributes to traumatic stress.

TNCC - Trauma Nurse Core Curriculum Practice Test

TNCC - Trauma Nurse Core Curriculum Practice Test

TNCC Psychosocial Aspects of Trauma 3