After having an intravenous (IV) line in place for 72 hours, a client complains of tenderness, burning, and swelling. Assessment of the IV site reveals a cord-like vein and a reddened streak. The nurse identifies that these findings indicate what complication?
Infiltration
Phlebitis
Extravasation
Infection
- E. Limited ambulation
The Correct Answer is B
A. Infiltration: Infiltration occurs when IV fluid or medication leaks into the surrounding tissue, typically causing swelling and coolness, but not usually a cord-like vein or a reddened streak.
B. Phlebitis: This is the correct choice. Phlebitis is inflammation of the vein, evidenced by tenderness, burning, swelling, and a reddened streak along the vein. The cord-like vein indicates inflammation.
C. Extravasation: Extravasation involves the leakage of vesicant drugs into surrounding tissue, which can cause severe tissue damage, but usually involves more than just a cord-like vein and reddened streak.
D. Infection: Infection typically presents with more systemic signs like fever and could involve purulent discharge, which is not described in this scenario.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Poorly controlled pain, moves all extremities, reports continued nausea: Poorly controlled pain and nausea are not ideal for discharge, as they indicate the patient might need further monitoring and management.
B. 2-hour total urinary output of 30 mL, pulse oximetry 94% on 3L oxygen, turning from side to side: Low urinary output and low oxygen saturation indicate potential complications that require further assessment and treatment.
C. Afebrile, adventitious breath sounds, responds to painful stimuli: Responding to painful stimuli and adventitious breath sounds suggest the patient may still be experiencing complications and is not ready for discharge.
D. SaO2 of 95%, vital signs stable for last 30 minutes, active gag reflex: This response indicates stable oxygen saturation, stable vital signs, and an active gag reflex, suggesting the patient is ready for discharge from the PACU.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Pulmonary embolism: Pulmonary embolism presents with sudden onset of chest pain, tachycardia, hypotension, and restlessness, which aligns with the client's symptoms. It is a common postoperative complication due to immobility and potential hypercoagulability.
B. Pneumonia: Pneumonia typically develops more gradually and presents with fever, productive cough, and respiratory distress rather than sudden chest pain and hemodynamic instability. It is less likely in the immediate postoperative period.
C. Hemorrhage: Hemorrhage would also cause tachycardia and hypotension, but it would typically present with symptoms such as excessive bleeding, swelling at the surgical site, and pallor rather than chest pain.
D. Myocardial infarction: While myocardial infarction can cause chest pain, tachycardia, and hypotension, it is less likely in this scenario compared to a pulmonary embolism, given the timing and nature of the symptoms in the immediate postoperative period.
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