A client receiving an IV medication develops localized swelling, erythema, and pain at the IV site. The nurse assesses the client's vital signs and finds no signs of systemic allergic reaction. What is the nurse's priority action?

Discontinue the IV medication immediately.

Administer an antihistamine to relieve the symptoms.

Notify the healthcare provider about the localized reaction.

Elevate the arm to reduce the swelling at the IV site.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A) This choice is correct. The client's localized symptoms of swelling, erythema, and pain at the IV site may indicate a local allergic reaction or chemical irritation. The nurse should discontinue the IV medication immediately to prevent the progression of the reaction and assess the client further for any systemic signs of an allergic reaction.

B) This choice is not the priority action. While administering an antihistamine may relieve symptoms of an allergic reaction, the nurse's priority is to discontinue the IV medication and assess the client's condition.

C) This choice is not the priority action. While notifying the healthcare provider is important, the nurse's immediate priority is to discontinue the IV medication and assess the client's condition.

D) This choice is not the priority action. Elevating the arm may provide comfort, but the nurse's priority is to discontinue the IV medication and assess the client's condition for any signs of a systemic allergic reaction.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis does not present with symptoms of dyspnea, chest pain, and cyanosis.

B) This choice is incorrect because infiltration does not cause sudden onset dyspnea, chest pain, and cyanosis. Infiltration involves localized symptoms around the insertion site.

C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload does not typically cause sudden onset dyspnea, chest pain, and cyanosis.

D) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of sudden onset dyspnea, chest pain, and cyanosis are indicative of a pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs. This can be a life-threatening complication of IV therapy, especially in clients receiving antibiotics who are at higher risk for clot formation.

A. Type I (Immediate) hypersensitivity B. Type II (Cytotoxic) hypersensitivity C. Type III (Immune Complex-Mediated) hypersensitivity D. Type IV (Delayed) hypersensitivity

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) This choice is correct. The client's sudden onset of hives, facial swelling, and difficulty breathing suggests a Type I (Immediate) hypersensitivity reaction, also known as anaphylaxis. Type I hypersensitivity reactions occur within minutes to hours after exposure to an allergen, leading to the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators.

B) This choice is incorrect because Type II (Cytotoxic) hypersensitivity reactions involve antibodies attacking specific cells or tissues, leading to cell destruction. They are not associated with the symptoms described by the client.

C) This choice is incorrect because Type III (Immune Complex-Mediated) hypersensitivity reactions involve the formation of immune complexes that deposit in tissues and trigger inflammation, but they do not typically present with generalized hives and facial swelling.

D) This choice is incorrect because Type IV (Delayed) hypersensitivity reactions occur 24 to 72 hours after exposure to an allergen and are mediated by T cells, leading to localized skin reactions like contact dermatitis. They are not associated with the rapid onset of symptoms described by the client.

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A client receiving an IV medication develops localized swelling, erythema, and pain at the IV site. The nurse assesses the client's vital signs and finds no signs of systemic allergic reaction. What is the nurse's priority action?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client receiving IV antibiotics develops sudden onset dyspnea, chest pain, and cyanosis. The nurse should suspect which complication of IV therapy?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A client receiving an IV medication suddenly develops generalized hives, facial swelling, and difficulty breathing. The nurse should suspect which type of hypersensitivity reaction?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client receiving IV fluids complains of a cool sensation around the insertion site, and the nurse observes swelling and blanching of the skin. Which complication of IV therapy should the nurse suspect?

A client receiving an IV medication develops localized swelling, erythema, and pain at the IV site. The nurse assesses the client's vital signs and finds no signs of systemic allergic reaction. What is the nurse's priority action?

A nurse is caring for a client with a peripheral IV catheter in place. The client reports tenderness, warmth, and swelling along the vein path. The nurse should suspect which complication of IV therapy?

A client receiving IV medications develops a painful, warm, and red streak along the arm near the IV site. The nurse should recognize these symptoms as potential signs of which complication of IV therapy?

A client receiving IV therapy suddenly develops shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate. The nurse should suspect which complication and take immediate action?

A client with chronic kidney disease is receiving IV therapy with a potassium-containing solution. The nurse should carefully monitor the client for which complication?

A client receiving IV fluids develops a fever, tachycardia, and hypotension. The nurse should recognize these symptoms as potential signs of which complication of IV therapy?

A client receiving IV therapy complains of pain and burning at the insertion site. The nurse notices the skin turning red and becoming tender. Which action should the nurse take first?