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?
Stop the IV infusion immediately.
Elevate the arm to promote venous return.
Apply a warm compress to the site for comfort.
Administer a prescribed analgesic.
The Correct Answer is A
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
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because infiltration is not typically associated with symptoms of chest pain, difficulty breathing, decreased blood pressure, and weak pulse.
B) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis does not cause sudden onset chest pain, difficulty breathing, decreased blood pressure, and weak pulse.
C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not associated with symptoms like chest pain and decreased blood pressure. It may cause elevated blood pressure due to increased fluid volume.
D) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, decreased blood pressure, and weak pulse are indicative of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis can occur in response to an allergen in the IV fluid or medication and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis and infiltration are not associated with symptoms of shortness of breath, crackles in the lungs, and jugular vein distention.
B) This choice is incorrect because infiltration typically does not cause respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath and crackles in the lungs.
C) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of shortness of breath, crackles in the lungs (rales), and jugular vein distention are potential signs of fluid overload, which occurs when there is an excessive volume of IV fluids administered.
D) This choice is incorrect because catheter occlusion does not cause respiratory symptoms like those described by the client.
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