Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN) Practice Exam

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A child has an isolated closed femur fracture. His hematocrit drops 8 points. What is the best course of action?
Correct Answer:
A child with a closed femur fracture typically drops 4 points, so search for other sources
Explanation:
In the case of an isolated closed femur fracture in a child with an 8-point drop in hematocrit, it is prudent to suspect that there may be additional sources of bleeding or other complications that need to be addressed. A drop in hematocrit, particularly one as significant as 8 points, can indicate considerable blood loss and the potential for hypovolemia, even in a scenario typically associated with less significant losses in children. When managing pediatric patients, it's vital to recognize that their physiological responses to trauma and blood loss can differ from adults. While it is true that in cases of closed long bone fractures, the expected drop in hematocrit might not be as dramatic as it appears, an 8-point drop suggests that the child's condition warrants further investigation to rule out concurrent injuries or internal bleeding that may not be immediately apparent. Thus, the best course of action is to search for other sources of bleeding to ensure the child's safety and stability. Assessing for other injuries, particularly in the context of trauma, is crucial as children may sustain multiple injuries that could contribute to significant blood loss. Monitoring vital signs and considerations for volume resuscitation may also become necessary depending on the clinical context. This proactive approach in evaluating the child's condition aligns

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