Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test

In case of a small fire in a patient's room, what is the nurse's priority action?

1. Pull the fire alarm.

2. Close the door to prevent spread.

3. Rescue and remove the patient from the room.

4. Put out the fire with an extinguisher.

The correct answer is: Rescue and remove the patient from the room.

In the event of a small fire in a patient's room, the nurse's priority action is to rescue and remove the patient from the room. This action is aligned with the fundamental principle of fire safety, which prioritizes the protection of human life above all else. The immediate goal is to ensure the safety of the patient, as they may be incapacitated, frightened, or unable to escape on their own. When faced with a fire, a swift rescue is essential to prevent injury or loss of life. This step takes precedence over other actions such as pulling the fire alarm or attempting to extinguish the fire. While those actions are important, the urgency of getting the patient to safety cannot be overstated. After the patient is moved to a safe area, the nurse can then follow up by sounding the alarm and initiating further safety protocols. In summary, the critical first step in a fire situation is to prioritize the rescue of the patient. Once the patient is safe, the nurse can address the alarm and manage the fire, but the immediate focus must always be on ensuring the welfare of those in danger.