A nurse is assisting with the care of a client.

Exhibits

For each data collection finding, dick to specify if the finding is consistent with ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or Crohn's disease. Each finding may support more than 1 disease process.

A. Prepare the client for a chest x-ray to verify catheter placement. A chest x-ray is required after central venous catheter insertion to confirm proper placement before initiating total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Incorrect placement can lead to complications such as pneumothorax, arterial puncture, or catheter malposition, making verification essential for safe administration.
B. Use clean technique when changing the catheter dressing. Central venous catheter dressings require sterile technique, not clean technique, to prevent bloodstream infections. Proper infection control measures, including hand hygiene, chlorhexidine skin antisepsis, and sterile gloves, help minimize the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections.
C. Verify the amount of TPN solution the client is receiving every 4 hr. TPN is typically monitored continuously, with infusion rates checked at least hourly to ensure proper administration. Regular assessments of fluid balance, glucose levels, and electrolyte status are also necessary to prevent complications such as hyperglycemia or fluid overload.
D. Place the client in Sims' position for catheter insertion. The preferred position for central venous catheter insertion is Trendelenburg or supine, which helps dilate the veins and reduces the risk of air embolism. Sims’ position (lying on the left side with the right knee flexed) is not appropriate for this procedure.

Rationale for Correct Choices:

Chorioamnionitis is a bacterial infection of the amniotic fluid and fetal membranes, which can develop when the protective barrier is compromised due to prolonged rupture of membranes. This client reported clear fluid discharge the previous evening, indicating that the membranes have been ruptured for an extended period. The risk of infection increases significantly as time progresses. Additionally, the client exhibits signs of maternal restlessness and increased fetal heart rate, which could indicate an early response to infection or fetal distress.

Hemorrhage is a significant risk during labor, especially as the cervix approaches full dilation and the client exhibits increasing amounts of blood-tinged vaginal discharge. The client’s history of previous pregnancy loss and current cervical changes suggest that monitoring for postpartum hemorrhage will be essential, particularly after delivery.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices:

Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy is a severe complication associated with conditions such as placental abruption, preeclampsia, or amniotic fluid embolism. However, this client does not exhibit hallmark signs such as widespread bruising, uncontrolled bleeding, or abnormal clotting, making this a less likely immediate risk.

Seizures are characteristic of eclampsia, which is typically preceded by severe preeclampsia. While the client is restless and experiencing significant pain, there are no findings of hypertension, hyperreflexia, or neurological disturbances such as visual changes or altered mental status, making seizures an unlikely concern at this time.

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy characterized by elevated blood pressure, proteinuria, and systemic symptoms. This client has stable blood pressure readings within the normal range, no evidence of proteinuria, and no indications of significant organ dysfunction, making preeclampsia an unlikely concern.

Dehydration is a potential concern due to the client’s nausea, vomiting, and lack of recent oral intake. However, there are no immediate signs of hemodynamic instability, such as hypotension or tachycardia, suggesting that dehydration is not the most pressing concern at this moment.