A nurse is preparing to administer ciprofloxacin 400 mg by intermittent IV infusion to a client over 60 min. Available is ciprofloxacin 400 mg in dextrose 5% in water (DSW) 200 mL. The nurse should set the pump to deliver how many mL/hr? (Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Rationale:

A. Uses the TPN IV tubing to administer the client's next dose of antibiotics: TPN lines should never be used for administering other medications or fluids because this increases the risk of contamination, infection, and incompatibility reactions. TPN requires dedicated IV access to maintain sterility and prevent complications such as sepsis.

B. Plans for a check of the client's fingerstick glucose level every 6 hr: Monitoring blood glucose regularly is essential during TPN administration because high dextrose concentrations can cause hyperglycemia. Checking every 4–6 hours aligns with safe monitoring practices and does not require intervention.

C. Gradually increases the TPN infusion rate each hour until the prescribed rate is achieved: Slowly titrating the TPN rate helps the client adjust to the high glucose content and reduces the risk of hyperglycemia or fluid overload. This demonstrates safe and appropriate administration practice.

D. Schedules a bag and tubing change for 24 hr after the start of the infusion: Changing the TPN solution and tubing every 24 hours is consistent with infection control guidelines. This action maintains sterility and prevents microbial growth, reflecting proper technique.

Rationale:

• "We should notify the provider if the cast becomes loose over time." A loose cast may no longer immobilize the fracture effectively and can allow excessive movement. It may also rub the skin, increasing the risk of irritation or breakdown.

• "It is important that our child avoids placing anything inside the cast." This statement reflects understanding because inserting objects inside the cast can break the skin and introduce bacteria, leading to infection. It may also damage the padding and compromise skin protection.
• "We should expect the swelling and tingling to worsen before it gets better." This statement needs reinforcement because worsening swelling and tingling can indicate early signs of compartment syndrome. These symptoms are not normal and should prompt immediate medical attention.
• "We need to be very careful about how we handle the cast for the first 2 days while it dries." This shows understanding because a plaster cast takes 24 to 48 hours to fully dry. Improper handling can cause pressure indentations, leading to skin damage and poor cast integrity
• "We should prop the casted arm on pillows for the next 24 hours." Elevating the limb helps reduce swelling and pain by improving venous return. Keeping the casted arm elevated is a standard part of cast care teaching after an injury.