A nurse is assessing a client who has a central venous catheter (CVC) with intravenous (IV) fluids infusing. The client suddenly develops shortness of breath, and the nurse notes that the IV tubing and needleless connector device are disconnected. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Close the pinch clamp on the CVC.

Obtain a prescription for stat ABGS (Arterial Blood Gas Studies).

Place the client in the left Trendelenburg position.

Check the tubing for placement of a locking adaptor.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

The nurse's first priority in this situation should be to close the pinch clamp on the central venous catheter (CVC). This will prevent air from entering the client's vascular system and causing an air embolism, which can lead to serious complications. Once the clamp is closed, the nurse can then proceed with further assessments and interventions.

Choice B rationale:

Obtaining a prescription for stat ABGS (Arterial Blood Gas Studies) is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. While ABGS may be relevant later to assess the client's respiratory status, the immediate concern is to prevent air embolism by closing the disconnected IV tubing.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the client in the left Trendelenburg position is not the first priority in this situation. The Trendelenburg position is used to increase venous return and is typically indicated in cases of hypotension or shock. Closing the clamp to prevent an air embolism should be the nurse's initial action.

Choice D rationale:

Checking the tubing for the placement of a locking adaptor is not the first action the nurse should take. While it is essential to ensure that the IV tubing is properly connected and secured, preventing the air from entering the CVC should take precedence in this urgent situation.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Answer: C. "Insert the entire needle into your skin to administer medication completely."

Rationale:

A) "Administer this medication into your leg muscle."
Enoxaparin should be administered subcutaneously, typically in the abdominal area, not into a muscle. Injecting it intramuscularly can lead to unpredictable absorption and increase the risk of bleeding.

B) "Expel the excess air in the syringe before you administer the medication."
This statement is incorrect. For enoxaparin, it is recommended to retain the air bubble in the syringe. The air bubble helps ensure the entire dose is delivered and minimizes leakage at the injection site.

C) "Insert the entire needle into your skin to administer medication completely."
This is an appropriate instruction as it emphasizes the need to fully insert the needle for effective subcutaneous delivery of enoxaparin. Proper technique is essential to ensure the medication is administered as intended.

D) "Take ibuprofen for fever following administration of this medication."
This recommendation is not advisable because ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken concurrently with enoxaparin. The client should consult their healthcare provider for safe alternatives for managing fever or pain.

A. Tugging on a pulley rope with both hands. B. Swinging a rope in a circular motion with the left hand. C. "Walking”. up a wall with both hands. D. Squeezing and releasing a ball in the left hand.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:
Is not suitable for a client who has undergone a mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection. This exercise may put a strain on the surgical site and cause discomfort or injury.
Choice B rationale:
Is also not appropriate for a postoperative mastectomy client. It involves using the left hand extensively, which could potentially disrupt the healing process and cause pain.
Choice C rationale:
Is not recommended for a postoperative mastectomy client. It involves significant upper body movement, which may not be well-tolerated after surgery, especially with lymph node dissection.
Choice D rationale:
This exercise is suitable for a postoperative mastectomy client as it helps in maintaining hand and arm mobility without putting excessive strain on the surgical site. It also aids in preventing complications like lymphedema, which is a potential concern after lymph node dissection.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is completing discharge teaching with a client who has a new prescription for enoxaparin to treat unstable angina. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is postoperative following a mastectomy of the left breast with axillary lymph node dissection. Which of the following exercises should the nurse instruct the client to start on the first postoperative day?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is performing a neurovascular assessment on a client who has a fractured left femur. For which of the following findings should the nurse intervene immediately?

A nurse is teaching an older adult client who has osteoporosis about ways to promote musculoskeletal health. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A nurse is reviewing the prescriptions for a client who has a new diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse clarify with the provider?

A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a total left hip arthroplasty. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A nurse is caring for several clients who are at risk of developing a pressure injury. Which of the following clients is most at risk?

A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing anxiety as well as numbness and tingling of the lips and fingers. The client's ABGs are pH 7.48, PCO2 30 mm Hg, HCO3 24 mEq/L, PaO2 85 mm Hg. Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse identify that the client is experiencing?

A nurse is caring for a client who has a deep vein thrombosis and a prescription for heparin. For which of the following findings should the nurse withhold the medication and notify the provider?

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a newly inserted permanent pacemaker. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?