A nurse is preparing to administer heparin subcutaneously to an obese client who has a deep vein thrombosis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Select a 22-gauge needle for heparin administration.

Insert the needle at a 90° angle.

Massage the injection site after administering the heparin.

Aspirate for a blood return prior to injecting the heparin.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

B. Subcutaneous injections are generally administered at a 45° or 90° angle, depending on the amount of subcutaneous tissue present. In obese clients, there is typically more subcutaneous tissue, so inserting the needle at a 90° angle may be necessary to ensure proper medication absorption.

A. A smaller gauge needle (such as 25 or 26 gauge) is usually more appropriate for subcutaneous injections to minimize discomfort and tissue trauma, especially in obese clients where there is more subcutaneous tissue.

C. Massaging the injection site after administering heparin is not recommended. It can cause discomfort, bruising, and potentially alter the absorption rate of the medication. The injection site should be gently

pressed with a dry gauze pad after withdrawal of the needle to help disperse the medication and prevent leakage, but massaging should be avoided.

D. Aspiration is not necessary for subcutaneous injections. It is generally used for intramuscular injections to ensure the needle is not in a blood vessel, which is less of a concern for subcutaneous injections. The injection technique involves pinching the skin and injecting the medication into the subcutaneous tissue without aspirating.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. This indicates a slight positive fluid balance (+100 mL), meaning the client has taken in slightly more fluids than they have excreted. This could be acceptable depending on the client's clinical condition and fluid status.

B. This indicates a negative fluid balance (-500 mL), suggesting the client has excreted more fluids than they have taken in. In some situations, such as in patients with certain conditions like edema, a negative balance might be intended.

C. This indicates a significant negative fluid balance (-1,300 mL), where the client has excreted much more fluid than they have taken in. This could indicate dehydration or fluid loss that needs to be addressed promptly.

D. This indicates a significant positive fluid balance (+2,000 mL), where the client has taken in much more fluid than they have excreted. This could indicate fluid retention, which might be acceptable in certain clinical conditions but could be problematic in others, such as in patients with congestive heart failure.

A. most appropriate distal vein on the nondominant arm. B. most appropriate proximal vein available on either arm. C. antecubital vein of the patient's nondominant arm. D. antecubital vein of the patient's dominant arm.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Distal veins, such as those in the hand or forearm of the nondominant arm, are often preferred for initial IV placement. These veins are typically smaller but can be easier to access and cause less discomfort for the patient compared to more proximal veins.

B. Proximal veins, such as those in the upper arm (brachial or basilic veins), may be considered if distal veins are not accessible or suitable. However, proximal veins are larger and can be more difficult to cannulate, potentially causing more discomfort and increasing the risk of complications.

C. The antecubital veins, located in the bend of the elbow, are commonly used for venipuncture due to their accessibility and size. The antecubital vein of the nondominant arm is often preferred to minimize interference with the patient's daily activities and reduce the risk of complications associated with frequent use of the dominant arm.

D. While the antecubital vein of the dominant arm may also be accessible, it is generally recommended to preserve this area for procedures that require a higher level of dexterity and strength. Frequent venipuncture in the dominant arm can lead to discomfort and potential complications, such as phlebitis or thrombosis.

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A nurse is preparing to administer heparin subcutaneously to an obese client who has a deep vein thrombosis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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