A nurse is caring for a client who has a peripheral IV inserted for fluid replacement.
On Day 1, Lactated Ringer’s was infusing at 100 mL/hr into a 20-gauge IV catheter in the left hand. The IV dressing was dry and intact.
The IV site was without redness or swelling. The IV fluid was infusing well.
On Day 2, the IV site was edematous.
The skin surrounding the catheter site was taut, blanched, and cool to touch. The IV fluid was not infusing.
The nurse is assessing the client.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale

Regulating the flow rate by aligning the rate with the top of the ball inside the flow meter is a common practice in oxygen therapy. However, this action is not the most critical aspect to include when reviewing evidence-based practice principles about administration of oxygen therapy with a newly licensed nurse.

Choice B rationale

Regulating oxygen via nasal cannula at a flow rate of no more than 6 L/min is indeed an important aspect of oxygen therapy. Oxygen delivered at higher rates using a traditional nasal cannula can dry out sinus passages and lead to nosebleeds. Nasal cannula is typically started at 2L/min and then titrated upwards to as high as 6L/min, although 2-4L/min is ideal. This delivers 25-40% FIO2, depending upon their respiratory rate, tidal volume, and amount of mouth breathing. Therefore, this action should be included when educating a newly licensed nurse about the administration of oxygen therapy.

Choice C rationale

Ensuring the reservoir bag of a partial rebreathing mask remains deflated is not a recommended practice. A partial rebreathing mask is a face mask with a reservoir bag that delivers moderate to higher concentrations of oxygen. Frequent inspection of the reservoir bag is required to ensure that it remains inflated; if it is deflated, exhaled air collects in it, which results in the patient rebreathing large amounts of exhaled carbon dioxide. Therefore, this action should not be included when educating a newly licensed nurse about the administration of oxygen therapy.

Choice D rationale

Using petroleum jelly to lubricate the patient’s nares, face, and lips is not recommended. Even though use of intranasal petroleum jelly is common, it is not recommended. The heaviness of the base does not allow normal secretion and/or absorption of fluids or medications. Vitamin E oil is a much more appropriate and equally available remedy. This lighter nonpetroleum lubricant has a natural emollient effect. Therefore, this action should not be included when educating a newly licensed nurse about the administration of oxygen therapy. Dressing Dressing Explore

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice C rationale: Assessing the patient for orthostatic hypotension is crucial because patients who can only bear weight on one leg may have compromised balance and stability. Orthostatic hypotension, or a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, could lead to dizziness or fainting, increasing the risk of falls and injury. Identifying this condition before transferring the patient ensures appropriate interventions can be taken to maintain safety and prevent accidents. The nurse can then apply necessary precautions such as additional support or slow, gradual position changes to minimize the risk.

Choice A rationale: Rocking the patient up to a standing position might help initiate the transfer, but it’s not the immediate priority after securing a safe environment. Ensuring the patient's stability and monitoring their vital signs, especially for orthostatic hypotension, is essential before attempting any movement.

Choice B rationale: Pivoting on the foot that is the farthest from the chair is part of the transfer technique, but it should only be performed after confirming the patient is stable and not at risk of orthostatic hypotension. Proper assessment precedes this step to prevent potential falls.

Choice D rationale: Applying a gait belt to the patient is important for safe transfer, but again, this step follows the assessment of the patient's condition. The gait belt is an aid for the transfer process, but its effectiveness relies on the patient's ability to stand without becoming dizzy or faint.