A nurse is monitoring a client following the insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing phlebitis at the insertion site?
Leakage of IV fluid
Blood leakage
Red streak
Purulent drainage
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Leakage of IV fluid: Leakage of IV fluid at the insertion site suggests infiltration, not phlebitis. In infiltration, fluid escapes into surrounding tissues, leading to swelling and coolness, but not inflammation of the vein itself.
B. Blood leakage: Blood leakage is usually related to poor catheter stabilization or improper insertion, not phlebitis. It does not indicate inflammation or irritation of the vein wall, which are hallmark signs of phlebitis.
C. Red streak: A red streak following the path of the vein is a classic sign of phlebitis. It indicates inflammation of the vein wall and is often accompanied by pain, warmth, and swelling along the vein.
D. Purulent drainage: Purulent drainage is a sign of infection rather than phlebitis. While phlebitis can lead to infection if untreated, purulent drainage points to a more serious complication involving bacterial growth.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. “I will wait 15 minutes before taking a second tablet.": Waiting 15 minutes delays relief and increases the risk of complications. The client should take a second tablet if chest pain is unrelieved after 5 minutes, up to three doses within 15 minutes, then seek emergency help if symptoms persist.
B. "I should stop taking the medication if I get a headache.": Stopping the medication due to a headache overlooks the therapeutic benefit. Headaches are a common side effect caused by vasodilation and can be managed with mild analgesics while continuing the medication as prescribed.
C. "I should expect pain relief in 1 to 3 minutes.": Sublingual nitroglycerin is rapidly absorbed through the oral mucosa, leading to relief typically within 1 to 3 minutes. This fast onset is essential for treating acute angina episodes effectively.
D. "I will swallow the tablet for faster absorption.": Swallowing the tablet bypasses the sublingual route, delaying its effect due to first-pass metabolism in the liver. The tablet must be placed under the tongue to ensure rapid absorption and therapeutic effectiveness.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Shortness of breath when climbing stairs: Mild dyspnea is common in the third trimester due to the upward displacement of the diaphragm by the enlarging uterus. This is typically not a concerning sign unless it occurs at rest or is accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain.
B. Periodic numbness of the fingers: Numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers during pregnancy can be caused by carpal tunnel syndrome due to fluid retention. While uncomfortable, it is a benign and relatively common symptom that usually resolves postpartum.
C. Leukorrhea: Leukorrhea, or increased vaginal discharge, is a normal finding in late pregnancy. It helps prevent ascending infections and is only concerning if it becomes foul-smelling, itchy, or changes in color, which could indicate infection.
D. Blurred vision: Blurred vision during the third trimester can be a sign of pregnancy-induced hypertension or preeclampsia. It may indicate cerebral involvement or elevated blood pressure and requires immediate evaluation by the healthcare provider.
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