Fire Safety And Evacuation (RACE/PASS)
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NCLEX-PN › Fire Safety And Evacuation (RACE/PASS)
When using a fire extinguisher, the nurse knows to aim the nozzle at which part of the fire?
The area just in front of the fire.
The top of the flames.
The center of the fire.
The base of the fire.
Explanation
The 'A' in the PASS acronym for fire extinguisher use stands for Aim. The nozzle should be aimed at the base of the fire, where the fuel source is. Extinguishing the fuel source is the most effective way to put out the fire.
What is the priority action for the nurse to take?
Close the door to the client's room.
Pull the fire alarm lever in the hallway.
Assist the client out of the room.
Use the fire extinguisher to put out the fire.
Explanation
The first step in the RACE fire response acronym is (R) Rescue. The nurse's immediate priority is to ensure the safety of the client by removing them from the area of immediate danger. After the client is safe, the nurse can proceed with the other steps of RACE: (A) Alarm, (C) Confine, and (E) Extinguish/Evacuate.
A nurse is preparing to use a portable fire extinguisher. According to the PASS mnemonic, what is the first step the nurse should take?
Squeeze the handle to discharge the agent.
Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
Pull the pin from the handle.
Sweep the nozzle from side to side.
Explanation
The PASS mnemonic outlines the steps for using a fire extinguisher. The first step is (P) Pull the pin. This action breaks the tamper seal and allows the handle to be squeezed. The subsequent steps are (A) Aim, (S) Squeeze, and (S) Sweep.
Which client should the LPN evacuate first?
A client who requires a wheelchair and is in the dayroom.
A client receiving oxygen who is two doors down from the fire.
A client who is ambulatory and is closest to the fire.
A client who is sleeping and is farthest from the fire.
Explanation
During a fire, the priority for evacuation is clients in immediate danger. This includes those closest to the fire. Ambulatory clients can be moved more quickly, making them a priority for initial rescue efforts to clear the area nearest the hazard.
Which statement by the UAP indicates a need for further teaching?
"My first action when I see a fire is to get the clients out of the room."
"I need to make sure hallways are kept clear of equipment and clutter."
"During an evacuation, I can use the service elevator to move clients faster."
"I should close all the doors on the unit if I hear a fire alarm."
Explanation
Elevators should never be used during a fire because they can malfunction, lose power, and trap occupants. This statement indicates a critical misunderstanding of fire evacuation procedures and requires immediate correction. All other statements demonstrate correct understanding of fire safety principles.
Which method is an appropriate way to move this client horizontally to an area of refuge?
Waiting for the fire department to arrive and assist.
Placing the client in a wheelchair and using the stairs.
Asking the client to crawl along the hallway.
Using a blanket to drag the client along the floor.
Explanation
For non-ambulatory clients during an emergency evacuation where a bed or stretcher is not feasible, a blanket drag is a safe and effective method to move a client horizontally. Wheelchairs cannot be used on stairs. Asking a client to crawl may not be safe or possible. Waiting for the fire department is not appropriate when immediate evacuation is necessary.
What is the nurse's priority action?
Activate the nearest fire alarm.
Move the client away from the oxygen source.
Go into the hallway to locate the source of the smoke.
Turn off the client's oxygen supply.
Explanation
When fire is suspected and a client is receiving oxygen therapy, the priority is to immediately turn off the oxygen supply. Oxygen supports combustion and creates a significant fire hazard. After discontinuing oxygen, the nurse should then investigate the smoke source and follow RACE protocols as appropriate.
The LPN is reinforcing teaching with a client about fire safety in the hospital. Which client statement indicates a correct understanding of the instructions?
"If I see a fire, I should open the window to let the smoke out."
"I know that staff will move the most critically ill clients first."
"I should remain in my room with the door closed if there is a fire in the hallway."
"I am allowed to smoke in my room as long as I use a deep ashtray."
Explanation
If a fire is in the hallway, the safest place for a client is often in their room with the door closed. Closing the door creates a barrier against fire and smoke. Staff will provide further instructions. Opening a window can draw smoke and fire into the room. Evacuation priority is typically for those in immediate danger first, not necessarily the most critically ill. Smoking is prohibited in hospitals.
The LPN is participating in a fire drill. Which action demonstrates correct understanding of the nurse's role?
Calling the maintenance department to silence the alarm.
Ignoring the alarm because it is only a drill.
Continuing with medication administration to stay on schedule.
Clearing visitors from the hallways and closing client room doors.
Explanation
During a fire drill, staff should react as if it were a real emergency. This includes practicing the steps of RACE. A key component of (C) Confine is closing client doors to prevent the spread of potential fire and smoke. Clearing hallways ensures a safe evacuation path. All other options are inappropriate and unsafe.
After rescuing the client, which type of fire extinguisher should the nurse select to use on this fire?
Type B, for flammable liquids.
Type C, for electrical equipment.
Type D, for combustible metals.
Type A, for paper and wood.
Explanation
Fires are classified based on their fuel source. An electrical fire is a Class C fire. A Type C extinguisher contains a non-conductive agent suitable for energized electrical equipment. Using a water-based extinguisher (Type A) on an electrical fire could cause electrocution. Most hospital extinguishers are Type ABC, suitable for all common types of fires.