A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is working in an outpatient clinic when local emergency management authorities issue an immediate 'shelter-in-place' order due to a massive release of toxic chlorine gas from a nearby industrial accident. The clinic's registered nurse (RN) manager is coordinating the overall emergency response. Which of the following actions is the most appropriate priority for the LPN to execute?
- ADon a standard surgical mask and isolation gown to quickly retrieve any clients who are still outside in the clinic's parking lot.
- BPerform initial triage assessments on all clients in the waiting room to categorize their risk for respiratory failure.
- Secure the building envelope by closing all windows and doors, and immediately shut down the facility's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.Answer
- DAttempt to verbally de-escalate panicked clients by explaining the specific chemical properties and half-life of chlorine gas.
Answer
The priority action for the LPN is to secure the building envelope by closing all windows and doors, and immediately shutting down the facility's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
In an external airborne hazardous material release (such as chlorine gas), the immediate priority is to prevent the toxic agent from entering the facility. 'Shelter-in-place' requires securing the building envelope by closing all external openings and shutting off the HVAC system to stop outside air from being drawn inside. This is a critical safety procedure that does not require independent nursing judgment, making it highly appropriate and prioritized for the LPN to execute while the RN manages complex clinical coordination.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Shelter-in-Place Protocol for Hazardous Materials
Estimated Time:1m 30s