The nurse calculates that a patient must receive 1.3 mL of an anti-infective agent. The dose is ordered IM. Which of the following choices demonstrates safe, evidence-based practice?
23g 1 in (2.54 cm) needle to the right deltoid. Use the acromion process as a landmark.
25g 0.5 in (1.3 cm) long needle to the left rectus femoris. Aspirate prior to injection.
27g 1.5 in (3.8 cm) long needle to the left vastus lateralis area. Massage area wearing clean gloves after injection.
21g 1.5 in (3.8 cm) needle to the right ventrogluteal area. Use Z-track technique.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice D Reason: 21g 1.5 in (3.8 cm) needle to the right ventrogluteal area. Use Z-track technique.
Choice A Reason:
Using a 23-gauge, 1-inch needle for an intramuscular (IM) injection in the deltoid muscle is generally appropriate for adults. The deltoid muscle is a common site for IM injections, especially for small volumes of medication (up to 2 mL). The acromion process is a correct landmark for locating the deltoid muscle. However, the deltoid muscle is not the best site for larger volumes or more viscous medications. Additionally, the needle length might not be sufficient for individuals with more subcutaneous fat, potentially leading to suboptimal medication delivery.
Choice B Reason:
A 25-gauge, 0.5-inch needle is typically used for subcutaneous injections rather than intramuscular injections. The rectus femoris muscle can be used for IM injections, but it is not the preferred site due to the potential for increased pain and discomfort. Aspiration before injection is a debated practice; current guidelines suggest that aspiration is not necessary for most IM injections, except when injecting into the dorsogluteal site, which is not recommended due to the risk of hitting the sciatic nerve.
Choice C Reason:
A 27-gauge, 1.5-inch needle is appropriate for IM injections, and the vastus lateralis is a suitable site, especially for infants and young children. However, massaging the injection site after administering an IM injection is not recommended. Massaging can cause the medication to disperse into the subcutaneous tissue, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing irritation or bruising.
Choice D Reason:
Using a 21-gauge, 1.5-inch needle for an IM injection in the ventrogluteal area is considered safe and effective. The ventrogluteal site is preferred for IM injections because it is free from major nerves and blood vessels, reducing the risk of injury. The Z-track technique is used to prevent medication from leaking into the subcutaneous tissue, ensuring that it remains in the muscle for proper absorption. This technique is particularly useful for medications that can stain or irritate the skin and subcutaneous tissue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Encouraging social interaction might not be appropriate in this situation. The client’s bizarre behavior is already causing distress to others, and encouraging more interaction could exacerbate the problem. The priority should be to address the immediate safety and well-being of both the client and others. Once the client is in a safe environment, social interaction can be encouraged in a controlled and therapeutic manner.
Choice B Reason:
Discussing the bizarre behavior with the client might not be effective in the moment, especially if the client is not in a state to understand or engage in such a discussion. The primary focus should be on ensuring safety and stability before addressing specific behaviors. Once the client is calm and in a safe environment, discussions about behavior can be more productive.
Choice C Reason:
Providing information about the client’s illness is important for long-term management and understanding, but it is not the immediate priority in this situation. The client’s current state requires immediate intervention to ensure safety. Education about the illness can be provided once the client is stabilized and in a better position to comprehend the information.
Choice D Reason:
Providing a safe environment is the most immediate and crucial priority. The client’s behavior is not only distressing to others but could also pose a risk to herself and others. Ensuring the client is in a safe, controlled environment helps to prevent harm and allows for further assessment and appropriate interventions. Safety is always the first priority in managing acute behavioral disturbances.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Clozapine is known to cause agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening condition where the white blood cell count drops significantly, leading to a higher risk of infection. Patients on clozapine must have regular blood tests to monitor their white blood cell count. Any signs of infection, such as fever, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms, should be reported to a physician immediately as they could indicate agranulocytosis.
Choice B Reason:
A decrease in hallucinations is generally a positive sign indicating that the medication is working effectively. It is not a reason to call the physician immediately. Instead, this should be discussed during regular follow-up appointments to assess the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Choice C Reason:
While a decrease in appetite can be a side effect of clozapine, it is not typically an emergency unless it leads to significant weight loss or malnutrition. This should be monitored and discussed with the physician during regular visits. If the decrease in appetite is severe or persistent, it may warrant a call to the physician, but it is not as urgent as signs of infection.
Choice D Reason:
Insomnia can occur with clozapine use, but it is usually managed with adjustments to the medication regimen or additional treatments for sleep. While it is important to address insomnia, it does not require immediate medical attention unless it severely impacts the patient’s well-being.
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