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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis typically presents with localized symptoms around the insertion site, such as redness and warmth, not shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate.

B) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate suggest an air embolism, which occurs when air enters the bloodstream through the IV catheter. This is a medical emergency, and the nurse should take immediate action to protect the client's airway, administer oxygen, and notify the healthcare provider.

C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not associated with symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate. It is characterized by symptoms such as edema and elevated blood pressure.

D) This choice is incorrect because infiltration involves the inadvertent administration of IV fluid into the surrounding tissues and is not associated with symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate.

A. Phlebitis B. Infiltration C. Fluid overload D. Air embolism

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis and infiltration typically do not cause chest pain, dyspnea, and tachycardia.

B) This choice is incorrect because infiltration is associated with localized symptoms around the IV site, not systemic symptoms like chest pain and dyspnea.

C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload may cause respiratory distress and tachycardia, but it is not typically associated with sudden chest pain.

D) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of sudden chest pain, dyspnea, and tachycardia are potential signs of an air embolism, which occurs when air enters the vascular system through the IV catheter and can lead to serious respiratory and cardiac complications.

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

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client receiving IV medication complains of sudden chest pain, dyspnea, and tachycardia. The nurse should recognize these symptoms as potential signs of which complication of IV therapy?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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