A nurse reviews the provider prescriptions and reassesses the client.

Exhibits

The nurse is continuing to care for the client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? Select all that apply.

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.

Rationale:

A. Maternal diabetes: Infants born to diabetic mothers are at increased risk for hypoglycemia due to elevated insulin levels stimulated by maternal hyperglycemia. After birth, the abrupt loss of maternal glucose can lead to a rapid drop in the infant’s blood sugar.

B. Prematurity: Premature infants have limited glycogen stores and immature metabolic systems, making them more susceptible to hypoglycemia. Their inability to effectively regulate glucose levels increases their risk after birth.

C. Hypothermia: Cold stress increases metabolic demands and glucose consumption. As the infant uses more energy to maintain body temperature, blood glucose levels can drop rapidly if not closely monitored and managed.

D. Thrombocytopenia: Low platelet counts may indicate other underlying conditions but are not directly associated with hypoglycemia. It is more relevant to clotting and bleeding risks rather than glucose regulation.

E. Anemia: Anemia affects oxygen-carrying capacity but does not have a direct link to blood glucose control. While it may indicate other health issues, it is not a recognized independent risk factor for neonatal hypoglycemia.