A client returns to the acute care unit following surgery with 0.9% normal saline infusing at 45 drops/minute through tubing with a drop factor of 60 drops per ml. The postoperative prescriptions include 0.9% normal saline at 75 ml/hour to alternate with Lactated Ringer's solution at 75 ml/hour. An intravenous infusion pump is not available. What action should the nurse implement?
Change the normal saline to a keep open rate until an infusion pump is available.
Increase the rate of the present normal saline infusion to 75 drops per minute.
Leave the normal saline at the current rate until an infusion pump is available.
Switch the saline to Lactated Ringer's solution infusing at 75 drops per minute.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Changing the normal saline to a keep-open rate (KVO) is not appropriate in this situation, as the client has specific fluid orders that need to be followed, and a KVO rate would not provide the prescribed maintenance fluids.
Choice B: Increasing the rate of the present normal saline infusion to 75 drops per minute would not meet the prescription for 0.9% normal saline at 75 ml/hour.
Adjusting the rate this way would require an infusion pump.
Choice C: Leaving the normal saline at the current rate until an infusion pump is available is the most appropriate action. It ensures that the client continues to receive fluids at the ordered rate until the necessary equipment is in place.
Choice D: Switching the saline to Lactated Ringer's solution infusing at 75 drops per minute would not meet the prescribed rate for the normal saline solution. The nurse should follow the specific orders provided.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Permanent lifestyle changes may not be necessary for a child with rheumatic fever and associated chorea. Rheumatic fever is typically treated with antibiotics to clear the streptococcal infection and prevent further complications.
Choice B: Muscle tension is not typically decreased with fine motor skill projects, and encouraging such activities may not directly address the symptoms of chorea. Fine motor activities can be pursued if they are enjoyable for the child but should not be presented as a primary treatment.
Choice C: Consistent discipline is important for children but may not be the primary focus when addressing chorea associated with rheumatic fever. Discipline should be appropriate and consistent but should not be the primary intervention for chorea.
Choice D: The chorea or movements are temporary and will eventually disappear. This is the most accurate and reassuring information to provide to the parents. Chorea associated with rheumatic fever typically resolves over time with appropriate treatment, and the child is expected to recover fully.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: This is not specifically related to the side effects of phenytoin.
Choice B: This is not directly related to the common side effects of phenytoin, which primarily affect the oral cavity.
Choice C: Phenytoin (Dilantin) is known to cause gingival hyperplasia (enlargement of the gums) as a common side effect. The nurse should regularly inspect the client's mouth to monitor for this adverse effect.
Choice D: This is not specifically relevant to monitoring for phenytoin's side effects.
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