A client receiving IV antibiotics develops sudden onset dyspnea, chest pain, and cyanosis. The nurse should suspect which complication of IV therapy?
Phlebitis
Infiltration
Fluid overload
Pulmonary embolism
The Correct Answer is D
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis typically presents with redness, warmth, and swelling around the insertion site, not coolness.
B) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of swelling and coolness around the insertion 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 swelling and coolness at the IV site.
D) This choice is incorrect because an air embolism is not associated with symptoms of swelling and coolness at the IV site.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis typically presents with redness and warmth around the insertion site, but it does not cause a painful, red streak along the arm.
B) This choice is incorrect because infiltration is characterized by swelling and blanching of the skin near the IV site, not a painful, red streak.
C) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of a painful, warm, and red streak along the arm near the IV site are indicative of thrombophlebitis, which is the inflammation of a vein associated with the formation of a blood clot.
D) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not associated with a painful, warm, and red streak along the arm.
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