A nurse is starting an IV infusion for a client and observes that the IV catheter has punctured the vein and fluid is leaking into the surrounding tissues. The client complains of burning pain at the insertion site. Which complication of IV therapy should the nurse suspect?
Infiltration
Phlebitis
Fluid overload
Extravasation
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because infiltration involves the inadvertent administration of IV fluid into the surrounding tissues, not puncturing the vein. Burning pain is not typically associated with infiltration.
B) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis is characterized by redness, warmth, and swelling around the insertion site, not fluid leakage and burning pain.
C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not related to the puncture of the vein and leakage of IV fluid. Symptoms of fluid overload include dyspnea, elevated blood pressure, and jugular vein distention.
D) This choice is correct. The nurse should suspect extravasation, which occurs when IV fluid or medication leaks into the surrounding tissues due to catheter puncture. Burning pain and discomfort at the insertion site are common symptoms of extravasation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis typically presents with redness, warmth, and swelling around the insertion site but does not cause blistering of the skin.
B) This choice is incorrect because infiltration involves swelling and coolness around the IV site, not blistering and redness.
C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not associated with pain, burning, swelling, or blistering around the IV site.
D) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of pain, burning, swelling, redness, and blistering around the IV site are indicative of extravasation, which occurs when chemotherapy or other vesicant medications leak into the surrounding tissues, causing tissue damage and skin breakdown.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because infiltration is not directly related to the client's history of heart failure.
B) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis is not specifically associated with heart failure but rather with irritants in the IV solution or mechanical trauma.
C) This choice is correct. Clients with a history of heart failure are at an increased risk of fluid overload due to their compromised cardiac function. Monitoring for signs of fluid overload, such as dyspnea, jugular vein distention, and peripheral edema, is essential during IV therapy.
D) This choice is incorrect because an air embolism is not directly related to the client's history of heart failure.
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.