A stable, ambulatory client arrives after an outdoor chemical release with liquid contamination on clothing and skin. Which action should the nurse take first?
1Escort the client into a treatment room and obtain a complete exposure history
2Cover the clothing with a clean sheet before checking vital signs
3Direct the client to the decontamination area to remove clothing and wash✓ Correct answer
4Apply an alcohol-based cleanser to exposed skin before entering the facility
Explanation
A stable contaminated client should be directed to decontamination before entering the treatment area. Removing clothing and washing exposed skin reduces absorption and prevents the chemical from spreading to staff, other clients, and the facility.
Quick answer Send the stable client to the designated decontamination area to remove contaminated clothing and wash exposed skin. This limits ongoing exposure and secondary contamination before routine treatment-room care.
Why this is correct Chemicals on clothing and skin can continue to be absorbed and carried into the facility. Removing clothing eliminates much of the surface contamination, and gentle washing further reduces the chemical while protecting staff and other clients from spread.
Easy analogy or mental picture Contaminated clothing is like a leaking container being carried through the hospital. Removing and isolating it stops the trail before cleanup continues; the image does not delay lifesaving airway or resuscitation measures for an unstable client.
Memory hook Stable chemical exposure means stop the spread: decontamination area, clothing off, gentle washing, then routine care.
NCLEX decision rule For a stable client with external chemical contamination, prevent secondary exposure before bringing the client into a clean treatment zone. Use the designated decontamination process and appropriate staff protection; unstable clients require simultaneous lifesaving care and contamination control.
Why the other choices are wrong Bringing contamination directly into a treatment room spreads the hazard. Covering clothing does not remove the chemical, and alcohol-based products can be inappropriate for skin decontamination and may increase absorption of some substances.
References
[1]
NCSBN: 2026 NCLEX-RN Test PlanNational Council of State Boards of Nursing
[2]
CDC: About Getting Clean After a Chemical EmergencyCenters for Disease Control and Prevention