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?
Stop the IV infusion.
Elevate the client’s left arm.
Apply heat to the client’s left hand.
Start a new IV in the client’s left hand.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
Choice A rationale
The nurse should stop the IV infusion. The client has manifestations of IV infiltration, which occurs when IV fluid enters the surrounding tissue. Stopping the IV infusion and removing the IV catheter can reduce the risk for further tissue damage.
Choice B rationale
The nurse should elevate the client’s left arm. Elevation can help decrease swelling and reduce the risk for tissue damage.
Choice C rationale
The nurse should apply heat to the client’s left hand. Heat can help reduce swelling and promote comfort.
Choice D rationale
Starting a new IV in the client’s left hand is not recommended at this point. The nurse should first manage the infiltration and then assess the need for a new IV3.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
When a patient is placed on isolation precautions, the nurse should wear an N95 mask when caring for the patient. This is to protect the nurse from airborne particles that may be present in the patient’s environment.
Choice B rationale
Another important action the nurse should take is to place a container for soiled linens inside the patient’s room. This is to prevent the spread of infection from the patient’s room to other areas of the healthcare facility.
Choice C rationale
Wearing a sterile, water-resistant gown if within 3 feet of the patient is not necessary unless the patient has a condition that requires contact precautions, such as MRSA or VRE. In general, isolation precautions do not require the use of a sterile gown unless performing a sterile procedure.
Choice D rationale
Ensuring the patient’s room is well-ventilated is important for certain types of isolation precautions, such as airborne precautions for tuberculosis. However, it is not a standard action for all isolation precautions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placing a pillow under the patient’s knees can actually increase the risk of plantar flexion contractures by keeping the foot in a flexed position.
Choice B rationale
Positioning a trochanter roll under each of the patient’s hips would not directly prevent plantar flexion contractures. Trochanter rolls are typically used to maintain alignment and prevent external rotation of the hip.
Choice C rationale
Advising the patient to wear rubber-soled slippers would not directly prevent plantar flexion contractures. While rubber-soled slippers can provide safety benefits such as preventing slips and falls, they do not have a direct impact on the prevention of contractures.
Choice D rationale
Applying an ankle-foot orthotic device to the patient’s feet can help maintain the foot in a neutral position, thereby reducing the risk of developing plantar flexion contractures.
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