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?
Phlebitis
Infiltration
Fluid overload
Catheter occlusion
The Correct Answer is B
A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis is characterized by redness, warmth, and swelling around the insertion site, not blanching of the skin.
B) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of a cool sensation, swelling, and blanching of the skin 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 local symptoms around the insertion site.
D) This choice is incorrect because catheter occlusion may affect the IV flow rate, but it does not typically cause the symptoms described by the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of swelling, redness, and warmth around the insertion site are indicative of phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein caused by irritants in the IV solution or mechanical trauma from the catheter.
B) This choice is incorrect because infiltration refers to the inadvertent administration of IV fluid into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling and coolness around the insertion site.
C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is characterized by symptoms such as shortness of breath, elevated blood pressure, and bounding pulse, not local symptoms around the IV site.
D) This choice is incorrect because air embolism occurs when air enters the vascular system, leading to symptoms such as dyspnea, cyanosis, and chest pain, rather than localized symptoms at the insertion site.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because mixing all the medications in one syringe is not recommended, as it may lead to medication incompatibilities or chemical reactions between medications.
B) This choice is incorrect because flushing the IV line with a large amount of normal saline does not prevent medication incompatibilities. It is essential to consult with the pharmacist to verify compatibility before administration.
C) This choice is correct. The nurse should consult with the pharmacist to verify the compatibility of the IV medications before administration. Certain medications may interact with each other or with the IV solution, leading to potential incompatibilities or adverse reactions.
D) This choice is incorrect because increasing the IV flow rate to hasten medication infusion does not prevent medication incompatibilities. It is essential to confirm compatibility before administering the medications.
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