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?
Phlebitis
Infiltration
Fluid overload
Air embolism
The Correct Answer is A
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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.
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.
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