A nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving DSW with 20 mEq of KCL at 75 mL/hr. The provider has prescribed 1 g of ceftriaxone IV. When preparing to administer this medication by IV piggyback, which of the following data is the highest priority for the nurse to consider before administration?
The patient's vital signs<br>
The medication's compatibility with the primary IV solution
The patient's level of consciousness
The amount of IV solution in the primary bag
The Correct Answer is B
B. This is the highest priority. Before administering ceftriaxone via IV piggyback, the nurse must ensure compatibility with the primary IV solution (D5W with KCl). Certain medications can interact chemically or physically with other IV solutions or medications, leading to precipitation, inactivation, or other adverse effects. Compatibility should be verified through appropriate resources or pharmacy guidelines.
A. Vital signs provide crucial information about the patient's overall condition, but they do not directly impact the administration of the IV medication ceftriaxone. However, if there are significant changes in vital signs (e.g., fever, hypotension), these could influence the decision to administer ceftriaxone or any medication.
C. Important, but not directly related to medication administration. The patient's level of consciousness is crucial for assessing their neurological status and response to treatment, but it does not affect the administration of ceftriaxone IV piggyback specifically.
D. Important, but not the highest priority in this context. Monitoring the amount of IV solution in the primary bag is essential to ensure continuous fluid delivery and prevent interruptions in therapy.
However, for the immediate preparation and administration of ceftriaxone IV piggyback, ensuring compatibility with the primary IV solution takes precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. The nurse should promptly notify the healthcare provider to discuss the allergy history and request an alternative antibiotic that is not structurally related to penicillin or cephalosporins. Examples of alternative antibiotics may include antibiotics from different classes such as macrolides or fluoroquinolones, depending on the indication and sensitivity profile.
A. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine that can help manage allergic reactions. However, it should not be used as a standalone precautionary measure for a client with a history of anaphylaxis to penicillin. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, and low blood pressure.
B. Before taking any further steps, the nurse should clarify and confirm the nature and severity of the client's allergic reaction to penicillin. Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction characterized by rapid onset and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Clarifying the history ensures accurate decision- making regarding the administration of cephalexin.
C. This is not recommended without further clarification and assessment. Given the history of anaphylaxis to penicillin, there is a significant risk of cross-reactivity with cephalosporins like cephalexin. Cephalosporins have a structural similarity to penicillin and can provoke allergic reactions in individuals with penicillin allergy, including anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Tachycardia refers to an elevated heart rate. In circulatory overload, the heart may attempt to compensate for the increased fluid volume by pumping faster. This compensatory mechanism aims to maintain adequate tissue perfusion despite the excessive fluid burden.
A. Diaphoresis refers to excessive sweating. It is not typically associated with circulatory overload. Instead, diaphoresis can occur in conditions such as fever, anxiety, or during physical exertion.
B Hypotension refers to low blood pressure. In circulatory overload, the excess fluid in the circulatory system can lead to increased blood pressure rather than hypotension. Hypotension is more commonly associated with hypovolemia (low blood volume) rather than hypervolemia.
C. Weight loss is not a characteristic finding in circulatory overload. On the contrary, patients with fluid overload often experience weight gain due to retained fluid in the body tissues and bloodstream.
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