A nurse is caring for a client with a peripheral IV catheter in place. The client complains of tenderness and a palpable, cord-like structure along the vein. The nurse should suspect which complication of IV therapy?
Infiltration
Phlebitis
Fluid overload
Thrombophlebitis
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because infiltration is characterized by swelling, coolness, and pallor around the insertion site, not a palpable, cord-like structure along the vein.
B) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis typically presents with redness, warmth, and swelling around the insertion site, not a palpable, cord-like structure.
C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not associated with a palpable, cord-like structure along the vein . It may cause generalized edema and increased blood pressure.
D) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of tenderness and a palpable, cord-like structure along the vein are indicative of thrombophlebitis, which is the inflammation of a vein associated with the formation of a blood clot. The palpable cord-like structure is likely a thrombus within the vein.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) This choice is correct. The client's sudden onset of hives, facial swelling, and difficulty breathing suggests a Type I (Immediate) hypersensitivity reaction, also known as anaphylaxis. Type I hypersensitivity reactions occur within minutes to hours after exposure to an allergen, leading to the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
B) This choice is incorrect because Type II (Cytotoxic) hypersensitivity reactions involve antibodies attacking specific cells or tissues, leading to cell destruction. They are not associated with the symptoms described by the client.
C) This choice is incorrect because Type III (Immune Complex-Mediated) hypersensitivity reactions involve the formation of immune complexes that deposit in tissues and trigger inflammation, but they do not typically present with generalized hives and facial swelling.
D) This choice is incorrect because Type IV (Delayed) hypersensitivity reactions occur 24 to 72 hours after exposure to an allergen and are mediated by T cells, leading to localized skin reactions like contact dermatitis. They are not associated with the rapid onset of symptoms described by the client.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because elevating the client's arm may not address the underlying complication of infiltration. The nurse's priority is to discontinue the IV infusion to prevent further complications.
B) This choice is incorrect because applying a warm compress is not the priority action. The nurse should first discontinue the IV infusion to assess the site and determine appropriate interventions.
C) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of pain, burning, redness, swelling, and coolness around the insertion site are indicative of infiltration, which occurs when IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissues. The nurse's priority is to discontinue the IV infusion to prevent further complications and assess the site for potential tissue damage.
D) This choice is incorrect because administering an analgesic may provide temporary pain relief, but it does not address the underlying complication of infiltration. The nurse should first discontinue the IV infusion and assess the site for potential complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.