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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis is characterized by redness, warmth, and swelling around the insertion site, not edema and coolness.
B) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of edema, coolness, sluggish infusion, and discomfort at the site are indicative of infiltration, which occurs when IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissues.
C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not associated with localized symptoms like those described by the client.
D) This choice is incorrect because an air embolism is not associated with symptoms of infiltration, such as edema and coolness around the IV site.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because elevating the client's arm may not address the underlying complication of infiltration. The nurse's priority is to discontinue the IV infusion to prevent further complications.
B) This choice is incorrect because applying a warm compress is not the priority action. The nurse should first discontinue the IV infusion to assess the site and determine appropriate interventions.
C) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of pain, burning, redness, swelling, and coolness around the insertion site are indicative of infiltration, which occurs when IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissues. The nurse's priority is to discontinue the IV infusion to prevent further complications and assess the site for potential tissue damage.
D) This choice is incorrect because administering an analgesic may provide temporary pain relief, but it does not address the underlying complication of infiltration. The nurse should first discontinue the IV infusion and assess the site for potential complications.
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