The client has received IV solution for three (3) days through a 20-gauge IV catheter placed in the left hand. On morning rounds, the nurse notes the IV site is tender to palpation and a red streak has formed. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Discontinue the intravenous line
Complete an incident report
Start a new IV in the right hand
Place a warm compress over the site
The correct answer is A.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Discontinue the intravenous line: The presence of tenderness and a red streak suggests phlebitis or possibly an early sign of infection. The first and most important step is to discontinue the IV line to prevent further irritation or infection.
B. Complete an incident report: While documentation is important, it is not the first action to take. Immediate attention should be given to the client’s physical condition before completing any paperwork.
C. Start a new IV in the right hand: While starting a new IV is necessary for continued therapy, the first action should be to remove the current IV line to prevent further complications. Starting a new IV can be done immediately afterward.
D. Place a warm compress over the site: A warm compress can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, but the priority action is to discontinue the IV line to stop further damage or infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Serum potassium 3.2 mEq/L: A serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L is below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hypokalemia, which can cause serious cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. This condition requires prompt correction and collaboration with the healthcare provider before surgery to avoid intraoperative and postoperative complications.
B. Pulse rate 65 bpm: A pulse rate of 65 bpm is within the normal range (60-100 bpm). While it should be monitored, it does not require immediate intervention or collaboration with the healthcare provider before surgery.
C. Hematocrit 36%: A hematocrit level of 36% is within the lower end of the normal range (35-45% for women). This does not indicate an immediate concern that requires prompt collaboration with the healthcare provider.
D. Blood pressure 144/82 mmHg: Although this blood pressure reading is slightly elevated, it is not uncommon and can be managed perioperatively. It does not require immediate intervention before surgery.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administer 10% sodium chloride via rapid infusion: Rapid infusion of high concentrations of sodium chloride can be dangerous and is not the standard treatment for severe hyponatremia.
B. Administer intranasal antidiuretic hormone: This would not be appropriate for correcting severe hyponatremia and could potentially worsen the condition.
C. Encourage oral fluid intake: For severe hyponatremia, oral fluid intake might not be sufficient and could exacerbate the condition if there is fluid overload.
D. Place the client on seizure precautions: This is the correct choice. Severe hyponatremia (sodium < 120 mEq/L) can lead to neurological symptoms and seizures, so implementing seizure precautions is crucial for safety.
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