A charge nurse is observing a newly licensed nurse provide care for a client who is postoperative.

The newly licensed nurse tells the client that she will insert a urinary catheter if the client will not void.

Which of the following torts should the charge nurse identify as having occurred?

Choice A rationale:

Spotting is a common finding in placenta previa. It occurs due to the abnormal implantation of the placenta over or near the cervical os, leading to vaginal bleeding. This bleeding can range from mild spotting to severe hemorrhage and is a significant sign of placenta previa.

Choice B rationale:

Nausea is not a specific sign of placenta previa. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms during early pregnancy but are not directly related to placenta previa.

Choice C rationale:

A board-like abdomen is a sign of peritonitis or an acute abdomen, which is not associated with placenta previa. This finding suggests intra-abdominal inflammation and is unrelated to the condition in question.

Choice D rationale:

Delayed menses is a common sign of pregnancy, but it does not specifically indicate placenta previa. Placenta previa is characterized by vaginal bleeding, which is not synonymous with a delay in menstrual periods.

Choice A rationale:

An angiocatheter is not appropriate for accessing an implanted venous access port. Angiocatheters are large-bore catheters designed for rapid fluid administration and are typically used for peripheral venous access. They are not suitable for accessing the small, specialized ports used for central venous access.

Choice B rationale:

A 25-gauge needle is too small for accessing an implanted venous access port. While smaller gauge needles are suitable for delicate procedures and patients with fragile veins, they might not provide adequate flow for certain therapies or blood draws. Accessing a port with a needle that is too small can lead to increased pressure, potentially damaging the port or causing discomfort to the patient.

Choice C rationale:

A butterfly needle is also not the best choice for accessing an implanted venous access port. Butterfly needles, also known as winged infusion sets, are commonly used for short-term peripheral venous access. They are not designed for accessing implanted ports, which require a noncoring needle for precise and safe access without damaging the port membrane.

Choice D rationale:

(Correct Choice) A noncoring needle, also known as a Huber needle, is the correct choice for accessing an implanted venous access port. Noncoring needles have a specially designed tip that creates a smaller puncture hole, reducing damage to the port membrane and minimizing patient discomfort. They are specifically designed for accessing ports and are the standard choice for this procedure.