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?
Infiltration
Phlebitis
Fluid overload
Sepsis
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because infiltration involves the inadvertent administration of IV fluid into the surrounding tissues and is not typically associated with systemic symptoms like fever, tachycardia, and hypotension.
B) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis typically presents with localized symptoms around the insertion site and is not associated with systemic symptoms like fever, tachycardia, and hypotension.
C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not associated with symptoms of fever, tachycardia, and hypotension. It is characterized by symptoms such as dyspnea and edema.
D) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of fever, tachycardia, and hypotension are potential signs of sepsis, a severe infection that can occur as a complication of IV therapy. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because administering IV medications rapidly may increase the risk of an allergic reaction, especially in a client with a history of multiple drug allergies.
B) This choice is incorrect because switching to oral medications may not be appropriate or feasible for all IV medications. The nurse should consider alternative medications only after performing a thorough allergy assessment and consulting with the healthcare provider.
C) This choice is incorrect because the choice of IV catheter gauge is not directly related to preventing allergic reactions. It should be based on the medication's compatibility and viscosity.
D) This choice is correct. A thorough allergy assessment is essential in a client with a history of multiple drug allergies to identify potential allergens and prevent exposure to allergenic medications. The nurse should communicate allergies to the healthcare team and document them in the client's medical record, using allergy alerts or wristbands, to ensure safe medication administration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because infiltration involves the inadvertent administration of IV fluid into the surrounding tissues, not redness, warmth, and tenderness around the insertion site.
B) This choice is incorrect because extravasation occurs when IV fluid or medication leaks into the surrounding tissues due to catheter puncture, but it does not present with redness and swelling.
C) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, and pain around the insertion site are indicative of phlebitis, which is the inflammation of the vein caused by irritants in the IV solution or mechanical trauma from the catheter.
D) This choice is incorrect because an air embolism is not associated with symptoms of phlebitis, such as redness and swelling around the IV site.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.