A nurse is caring for a client who has lung cancer and has a sealed radiation implant. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Preventing leakage is not the primary purpose of flushing an intermittent infusion device. Flushing maintains patency by clearing blood or medication residue, preventing clots or blockages. Leakage is addressed by proper capping or clamping, not flushing, making this statement incorrect as it misrepresents the procedure’s purpose.
Choice B reason: Flushing an infusion device does not contribute to hydration, as the flush solution (typically saline) is minimal and not intended for fluid replacement. The purpose is to maintain catheter patency by clearing debris or clots. This statement is incorrect, as it inaccurately suggests a hydration benefit unrelated to the procedure.
Choice C reason: Flushing an intermittent infusion device with saline clears blood or medication residue from the catheter, preventing occlusion and maintaining patency. Blood left in the line can clot, increasing infection risk or blocking the device. This statement accurately reflects the procedure’s purpose, ensuring continued functionality for future medication administration.
Choice D reason: Flushing does not ensure sterility, as the device is already in place and exposed to the bloodstream. Sterility is maintained during insertion or access, not flushing. The primary goal is patency, not sterilization, making this statement incorrect as it misaligns with the procedure’s clinical purpose.

Choice A reason: Percussion precedes palpation to assess abdominal resonance and organ size without altering bowel motility. Performing it last risks inaccurate findings, as palpation may stimulate peristalsis, changing resonance patterns. This sequence ensures reliable detection of abnormalities like organomegaly or fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
Choice B reason: Auscultation is done before palpation to capture natural bowel sounds. Manipulation during palpation can alter peristalsis, affecting auscultatory findings. Early auscultation ensures accurate detection of hypoactive or hyperactive bowel sounds, critical for diagnosing conditions like ileus or obstruction in abdominal assessments.
Choice C reason: Palpation is the final step, following inspection, auscultation, and percussion, to assess for tenderness or masses. This sequence prevents manipulation from altering earlier findings, ensuring accurate identification of abdominal abnormalities like peritonitis or organ enlargement, critical for a comprehensive physical examination.
Choice D reason: Inspection is the first step, providing a visual baseline of abdominal appearance, such as distension or scars. Performing it last misses initial cues guiding subsequent steps. Early inspection ensures no manipulation affects visual assessment, vital for identifying external signs of underlying abdominal pathology.