The IV infusion pump for a patient receiving an IV therapy begins to alarm and displays occlusion. When the silence button is pushed, the alarm quickly resumes. Which action should the nurse take first?
Turn off the IV solution and gently flush the line with 3 mL of saline flush solution.
Decrease the rate to 10 mL/hr and flush the line with 1 mL of heparin solution.
Notify the physician
Check for kinking of the tubing or a closed clamp.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Turn off the IV solution and gently flush the line with 3 mL of saline flush solution: This may be necessary later if the occlusion is not resolved by troubleshooting, but the first action should be to check the tubing and clamp for any obstructions.
B. Decrease the rate to 10 mL/hr and flush the line with 1 mL of heparin solution: This is not appropriate as an initial action. Heparin flushes are generally used for maintaining patency in central lines and are not indicated for occlusions caused by tubing issues.
C. Notify the physician: While important if the issue persists, this is not the first action. The nurse should attempt to resolve the problem independently first.
D. Check for kinking of the tubing or a closed clamp: This is the first action the nurse should take. Most occlusions are due to kinking in the tubing or a closed clamp, and resolving this issue may immediately restore the flow.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Have the laboratory draw a blood sample for an erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): ESR measures inflammation and is unrelated to hyperkalemia.
B. Restrict fluid intake: Fluid restriction is not appropriate for hyperkalemia unless specifically related to fluid overload or renal failure.
C. Obtain a 12-lead ECG: Hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias such as peaked T waves, widened QRS complexes, or asystole. ECG monitoring is essential.
D. Administer potassium gluconate 40 mEq orally: This would worsen hyperkalemia and is contraindicated.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A patient who lost 2 liters of blood during surgery: This is the most acute and severe form of hypovolemia due to significant blood loss, requiring immediate fluid replacement and hemodynamic monitoring.
B. A patient who received 6 liters of IV fluid: This patient is at risk for hypervolemia, not hypovolemia, due to fluid overload.
C. A patient with UTI on PO meds: While dehydration may occur, it is typically mild and does not cause hypovolemia.
D. A patient with congestive heart failure: CHF usually leads to fluid retention, making hypovolemia unlikely unless there are other complicating factors.
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