A nurse is preparing to initiate IV therapy for an older adult client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Select a vein on the back of the hand.
Clean the site using vigorous friction.
Use a 22-gauge catheter for insertion.
Apply a tourniquet firmly above the insertion site.
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Select a vein on the back of the hand: Veins on the dorsum of the hand are often more fragile and prone to infiltration or rupture in older adults. Using a more proximal site, such as the forearm, is generally safer and more stable for IV therapy.
B. Clean the site using vigorous friction: Older adults often have thinner, more delicate skin that can tear easily. While proper antiseptic technique is important, vigorous friction can cause skin trauma and should be avoided during site preparation.
C. Use a 22-gauge catheter for insertion: A 22-gauge catheter is appropriate for older adults because it minimizes vein trauma while still allowing for adequate flow rates. This size is effective for most fluids and medications while reducing the risk of vessel damage.
D. Apply a tourniquet firmly above the insertion site: Applying a tourniquet too tightly can injure fragile veins or cause them to collapse. In older adults, using minimal pressure or alternative vein-dilation methods like warm compresses is often safer.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"B"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"}}
Explanation
Rationale:
- Prolonged rupture of membranes: Membranes ruptured for over 24 hours (28 hr), increasing the risk for ascending bacterial infections such as endometritis or chorioamnionitis.
- Prenatal anemia: Anemia reduces immune function and tissue oxygenation, making the client more susceptible to postpartum infections, including uterine and systemic infections.
- Polyhydramnios: Excessive amniotic fluid causes uterine overdistension, which weakens uterine contractility and increases the risk of atony and postpartum hemorrhage.
- High parity: Repeated stretching of the uterus in grand multiparity reduces muscle tone, making the uterus less responsive to postpartum contraction and more prone to atony.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "This helps to keep you hydrated.": Flushing an intermittent infusion device does not hydrate the client, as the small amount of saline used is not intended for fluid replacement. Hydration is achieved through continuous or scheduled fluid administration, not flushes.
B. "This clears blood from the tubing and the catheter.": Flushing helps maintain catheter patency by preventing blood from clotting inside the lumen. It ensures the device remains functional and ready for medication administration when needed.
C. "This makes sure it stays sterile.": Flushing does not sterilize the device. Sterility is maintained through proper handling and use of aseptic technique. The purpose of flushing is mechanical, not antimicrobial.
D. "This prevents leakage of fluid and medication.": While flushing may help confirm that the device is intact, the primary reason is not to prevent leakage but to maintain patency and ensure the catheter is free of occlusions.
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