The charge nurse observes the response to smoke and fire in a client room. Which actions require immediate follow-up? Highlight the actions that increase danger during the fire response.
Highlight in Table
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
Opening a window, leaving oxygen flowing near the fire, and attempting extinguisher use without a safe exit require follow-up. Rescue, alarm activation, door closure, and plan-directed relocation limit exposure and support evacuation.
Quick answer Highlight opening the room window, continuing oxygen flow beside the burning material, and approaching with an extinguisher when smoke blocks the exit path. These actions can feed combustion, spread smoke, or trap the responder.
Why this is correct Hospitals require a practiced emergency action and fire-prevention plan. Oxygen supports combustion, doors help contain smoke, and portable extinguisher use is appropriate only for a small incipient fire when the responder has training and a clear evacuation path.[2]
Easy analogy or mental picture Picture smoke and fire as water behind a compartment door: opening extra pathways lets the hazard travel, while closing the door buys time for rescue and relocation. Unlike water, fire also accelerates in oxygen-enriched areas, so the analogy is limited.
NCLEX decision rule During a healthcare fire, protect people first, activate the alarm, contain smoke and fire, control oxygen only when safe and directed, and never fight a fire that blocks the exit or exceeds training.
Why the other choices are wrong Moving the nearest client from immediate danger, activating the alarm, closing doors, following horizontal-relocation instructions, reporting the exact location, and using the designated safe route are expected actions. They support the facility plan without exposing staff to an unsafe fire.
References
[1]
NCSBN: 2026 NCLEX-RN Test PlanNational Council of State Boards of Nursing
[2]
OSHA: Hospital Fire HazardsOccupational Safety and Health Administration