The nurse is caring for a client receiving an intravenous medication that is a vesicant. The IV flow has stopped and there is pain, burning and swelling at the IV site. What action should the nurse take first?
Elevate the extremity on a pillow
Immediately remove the catheter
Keep the catheter in place
Place a cool compress on the area
The Correct Answer is B
B. When a client experiences symptoms of extravasation, such as pain, burning, and swelling, especially with a vesicant medication, the priority is to stop the infusion and remove the catheter immediately to prevent further tissue damage. Removing the catheter promptly helps minimize the amount of medication that may have leaked into the surrounding tissues.
A. Elevating the extremity on a pillow may help reduce swelling and discomfort in some cases, but it is not the first action the nurse should take when a vesicant medication has caused pain, burning, and swelling at the IV site.
C. Keeping the catheter in place is not advisable when extravasation has occurred, especially with a vesicant medication. Continuing the infusion could lead to further tissue damage and exacerbate the client's symptoms. Removing the catheter is necessary to prevent additional medication from entering the surrounding tissues.
D. While applying a cool compress may provide temporary relief from discomfort, it is not the first action the nurse should take when managing extravasation caused by a vesicant medication. The priority is to stop the infusion, remove the catheter, and assess the extent of tissue damage. Cool compresses may be used after the catheter removal to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevation of the bicarbonate (HCO3) levels in the blood, leading to an increase in pH above the normal range (7.35-7.45). Antacid tablets typically contain compounds such as calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, or aluminum hydroxide, which can neutralize stomach acid (hydrochloric acid). Chronic ingestion of large amounts of antacids, as in the case of this client taking approximately 15 tablets per day, can result in excessive bicarbonate intake, leading to metabolic alkalosis.
B. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is a decrease in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the blood, leading to an increase in pH above the normal range. Antacid tablets do not directly affect respiratory function or CO2 levels, so respiratory alkalosis is unlikely to occur as a result of antacid ingestion.
C. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in bicarbonate (HCO3) levels in the blood, leading to a decrease in pH below the normal range. In the context of antacid ingestion, metabolic acidosis is less likely to occur. However, if the antacids contain compounds that are absorbed systemically and excreted by the kidneys (such as aluminum-containing antacids), they may lead to renal dysfunction or electrolyte imbalances, which could potentially contribute to metabolic acidosis.
D. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the blood, leading to a decrease in pH below the normal range. Antacid tablets do not directly affect respiratory function or CO2 levels, so respiratory acidosis is unlikely to occur as a result of antacid ingestion.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. This statement demonstrates an understanding of palliative care as a supportive approach focused on optimizing independence and quality of life. Palliative care emphasizes symptom management, psychosocial support, and enhancing functional abilities to enable patients to live as fully and independently as possible, even in the context of a progressive neurologic disease. This statement aligns with the principles of palliative care, which aim to empower patients to make choices and maintain control over their lives.
A. This statement reflects a perception of palliative care as solely placing the responsibility of care on the family. While family support is an essential component of palliative care, it is not the sole responsibility of the family. Palliative care aims to provide comprehensive support to patients with serious illnesses, addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. It involves a collaborative approach involving healthcare professionals, patients, and their families to ensure holistic care and quality of life.
C. This statement suggests a misconception about palliative care, equating it with relinquishing control of care decisions to a partner or caregiver. In reality, palliative care emphasizes patient-centered decision-making and supports patients in expressing their preferences, values, and goals of care. While caregivers play an important role in the palliative care team, ultimate decision-making authority rests with the patient, and care plans are tailored to align with the patient's wishes and priorities.
D. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of palliative care as a replacement for disease-specific medical care, such as neurology. Palliative care is not mutually exclusive with disease-focused treatment but rather complements it by addressing the broader physical, emotional, and social needs of patients with serious illnesses, including progressive neurologic diseases. Palliative care can be provided concurrently with disease-specific treatments and involves a multidisciplinary team, which may include specialists like neurologists, to ensure comprehensive care.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
