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?

Phlebitis

Infiltration

Fluid overload

Air embolism

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

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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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.

A. Stop the IV infusion immediately. B. Elevate the arm to promote venous return. C. Apply a warm compress to the site for comfort. D. Administer a prescribed analgesic.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of pain, burning, redness, and tenderness at the insertion site are indicative of a potential complication, such as phlebitis or infiltration. The nurse should stop the IV infusion immediately to prevent further damage.

B) This choice is incorrect because elevating the arm may not address the underlying complication of phlebitis or infiltration.

C) This choice is incorrect because applying a warm compress is not the priority. The nurse should first stop the infusion to prevent complications.

D) This choice is incorrect because administering an analgesic may provide temporary relief, but it does not address the potential complication causing the client's symptoms. The nurse should first stop the IV infusion to assess the site and determine appropriate interventions.

Questions

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing a client who has an IV catheter in place for fluid administration. The nurse observes swelling, redness, and warmth around the insertion site. Which complication of IV therapy should the nurse suspect?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client receiving IV therapy complains of pain and burning at the insertion site. The nurse notices the skin turning red and becoming tender. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with an IV catheter in place for medication administration. The nurse observes redness, warmth, and swelling around the insertion site, and the client reports tenderness and pain. Which complication of IV therapy should the nurse suspect?

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A nurse is starting an IV infusion for a client and observes that the IV catheter has punctured the vein and fluid is leaking into the surrounding tissues. The client complains of burning pain at the insertion site. Which complication of IV therapy should the nurse suspect?

A client receiving IV medications develops a painful, warm, and red streak along the arm near the IV site. The nurse should recognize these symptoms as potential signs of which complication of IV therapy?

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A nurse is caring for a client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) who requires IV therapy. Which intervention is essential to prevent the development of thrombophlebitis in this client?

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