A nurse is caring for client who is receiving a continuous IV infusion . The nurse notes the skin around the catheter's insertion site is edematous and cool. Which of the following actions is should the nurse take First?
Document the infiltration
Elevate the arm
Apply a warm compress.
Stop the infusion.
The Correct Answer is D
A) Document the infiltration: While documentation is an important part of the nursing process, it is not the first action to take. If an infiltration is suspected, the priority is to stop the infusion immediately to prevent further harm or fluid leakage into the surrounding tissues. Once the infusion is stopped, the nurse can then document the infiltration for medical record purposes.
B) Elevate the arm: Elevating the arm can help reduce swelling, but this should not be the first step. The first priority when infiltration is suspected is to stop the infusion, as continuing it can worsen the tissue damage and swelling. After stopping the infusion, elevating the arm may be considered as part of the subsequent management of the infiltration.
C) Apply a warm compress: A warm compress may be helpful after stopping the infusion, particularly if the infiltration involves non-vesicant fluids. However, applying a warm compress is not the immediate action. The first step should be stopping the infusion to prevent any further fluid from infiltrating the tissues.
D) Stop the infusion: The most immediate and appropriate action when infiltration is noted around the IV insertion site is to stop the infusion. This prevents additional fluid from leaking into the surrounding tissues, which could cause further damage. Once the infusion is stopped, the nurse can take other steps to manage the infiltration, such as assessing the site, applying a warm compress, or notifying the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Ensuring that creases in the stockings on the front of the client's legs:
This action requires intervention. The stockings should be applied smoothly and without any wrinkles or creases, as these can cause pressure points that may lead to skin irritation, impaired circulation, or discomfort for the client. The nurse should ensure that the assistive personnel applies the stockings correctly and without any creases to prevent these issues.
B) Applying the stockings before the client gets out of bed:
This is an appropriate action. Antiembolic stockings should be applied while the client is in a resting position, preferably before getting out of bed, to prevent venous stasis and improve circulation. Applying them while the client is lying down allows for proper fitting and ensures the stockings are worn during periods of immobility.
C) Asking the client to point their toes before applying the stockings:
This is an acceptable action. Asking the client to point their toes helps to stretch and align the legs for proper stocking application, making it easier to apply the stockings without causing discomfort. It is a good practice to ensure the stockings are applied properly while the client's feet and legs are positioned correctly.
D) Turning the stockings inside out before applying them:
This is a correct action. Turning the stockings inside out can help to prevent the stockings from rolling or bunching during application. It also allows the assistive personnel to place them on the client more easily and ensures a proper fit. The stockings should be turned right-side out after being applied to the legs.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) "Document the infiltration.": While documenting the infiltration is important for medical records, it is not the most immediate action to take. The nurse’s first priority should be to stop the infusion to prevent further complications such as tissue damage or excessive fluid accumulation around the insertion site.
B) "Elevate the arm.": Elevating the arm may help with swelling if the infiltration is mild, but it does not address the primary issue of preventing further fluid leakage. Stopping the infusion is the priority action to stop the infiltration from worsening.
C) "Apply a warm compress.": A warm compress can help with the absorption of infiltrated fluid, but it should not be applied until the infusion is stopped. If the infusion continues while a compress is applied, it could lead to further tissue damage and more discomfort for the client.
D) "Stop the infusion.": The first action should be to stop the IV infusion to prevent further infiltration. This stops the flow of fluid into the tissue, which is crucial in minimizing the risk of tissue damage and complications. After stopping the infusion, the nurse can assess the site, document the findings, and take additional actions, such as applying a warm compress or elevating the arm.
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.