A nurse is caring for a client who reports burning around the peripheral IV site. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of infiltration?

A. Report the finding to the provider. While the provider should be informed if the hypertension is new, persistent, or symptomatic, the nurse should first verify the blood pressure before escalating the concern.

B. Compare the finding to the client's blood pressure baseline. Checking the baseline is important, but the first action should be to confirm the accuracy of the reading by rechecking it. If the reading is consistent with previous values, the nurse can then compare it to the baseline.

C. Administer antihypertensive medications as prescribed. Administering medication without confirming the blood pressure reading could lead to unnecessary treatment or hypotension if the reading was inaccurate. The nurse should first recheck the BP.

D. Recheck the client's blood pressure. Rechecking the blood pressure ensures accuracy before making clinical decisions. Factors such as incorrect cuff size, client positioning, or transient increases (e.g., anxiety or pain) could cause an elevated reading. If the elevated BP is confirmed, then further action (e.g., notifying the provider or administering medication) can be taken.

A. Bradypnea: Bradypnea (slow breathing) is not a typical late sign of hypoxia. Instead, clients with worsening hypoxia often develop tachypnea (rapid breathing) as the body tries to compensate for low oxygen levels.

B. Restlessness: Restlessness is an early sign of hypoxia, not a late one. It occurs due to inadequate oxygenation of the brain, leading to agitation and confusion.

C. Hypertension: Hypertension can be an early response to hypoxia as the body attempts to increase oxygen delivery. However, as hypoxia progresses, blood pressure may drop due to worsening oxygen deprivation.

D. Tachycardia: Tachycardia (increased heart rate) is a late sign of hypoxia. The heart compensates for low oxygen levels by increasing cardiac output. However, if untreated, hypoxia can progress to bradycardia and cardiac arrest.