A nurse is caring for a patient who was in a motor vehicle accident that resulted in cervical trauma to C4. Which assessment is the $\bold{priority}$?
A) Pulse
B) Respirations
C) Temperature
D) Blood pressure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Respirations and oxygen saturation are the priorities. Cervical trauma at C3 to C5 usually results in paralysis of the phrenic nerve. When the phrenic nerve is damaged, the diaphragm does not descend properly, thus reducing inspiratory lung volumes and causing hypoxemia. While pulse and blood pressure are important, respirations are the priority. Temperature is not a high priority in this situation.

A Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Was in a Motor