Which is the priority action of the nurse immediately after administration of an intramuscular injection?
Inform the patient that the injection is complete.
Assess the patient's level of comfort.
Engage the safety sheath over the needle.
Ensure that there is no bleeding at the injection site.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Informing the patient is secondary; it addresses communication but not immediate safety risks like needlestick injury, which is a higher priority post-injection per occupational health standards.
Choice B reason: Assessing comfort is important but not urgent; pain evaluation can wait after securing the needle, as safety from sharps exposure outweighs immediate patient feedback in priority.
Choice C reason: Engaging the safety sheath prevents needlestick injuries; it’s the priority action to protect the nurse and others from bloodborne pathogens, aligning with universal precautions post-injection.
Choice D reason: Checking for bleeding is routine but not critical; minor oozing is common and manageable later, while needle safety is an immediate concern to prevent infection risks.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Deltoid and vastus lateralis are large muscles with good vascularity; they safely absorb IM injections, minimizing nerve damage or tissue irritation risks.
Choice B reason: Chest and abdomen lack sufficient muscle mass for IM; these are subcutaneous or IV sites, risking poor absorption or injury if used intramuscularly.
Choice C reason: Forearm and scapula are too thin or bony; IM injections here risk nerve or bone damage, lacking the muscle bulk needed for safe drug delivery.
Choice D reason: Lower leg (e.g., calf) has small muscles and major vessels; IM use risks vascular injury or slow absorption, making it an unsafe injection site.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Retailers use trade or generic names; trade isn’t exclusive here, as generics are sold too, making this a shared rather than unique trait.
Choice B reason: Chemical names define molecular structure (e.g., acetaminophen); trade names (e.g., Tylenol) are brand-specific, not tied to chemistry recognition.
Choice C reason: Orders use trade or generic names (e.g., Zestril or lisinopril); trade isn’t the only option, as generics are equally valid in prescriptions.
Choice D reason: Trade names are trademarked (e.g., Viagra); this legal protection distinguishes them from generic or chemical names, ensuring brand exclusivity.
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.