A client receiving parenteral nutrition by central venous access reports feeling unwell. The nurse assesses the client and suspects that the central line has become infected. Which of the following findings indicate that the client has developed a systemic infection? Select all that apply.

Choice A Reason: Edema is not a specific finding of a systemic infection, but rather a possible sign of fluid overload or impaired venous return. It can occur due to excessive infusion rate, heart failure, or obstruction of blood flow in or around the central line.

Choice B Reason: This is a correct choice. Purulent drainage at intravenous insertion site is a finding of a local infection that can spread systemically. It indicates bacterial invasion and inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue around the catheter.

Choice C Reason: Redness at insertion site is a finding of a local infection that can spread systemically. It indicates increased blood flow and inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue around the catheter.

Choice D Reason: Nausea is not a specific finding of a systemic infection, but rather a possible side effect of parenteral nutrition or a symptom of another condition. It can occur due to electrolyte imbalance, hyperglycemia, or gastrointestinal disorders.

Choice E Reason: This is a correct choice. Leukocytosis is a finding of a systemic infection that indicates increased production and release of white blood cells in response to infection. It can be detected by a blood test.

Choice F Reason: This is a correct choice. Fever is a finding of a systemic infection that indicates increased body temperature due to activation of the immune system and release of pyrogens. It can be measured by a thermometer.

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because administering medications and electrolytes is not the primary purpose of inserting a nasogastric tube for a client with acute peritonitis. Medications and electrolytes can be given through other routes, such as IV or oral.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because dilating the stomach as a presurgical preparation is not a relevant Reason for inserting a nasogastric tube for a client with acute peritonitis. Dilating the stomach may be done before some types of gastric surgery, but it does not apply to peritonitis.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because stating that you will not be able to eat for several days is not an adequate explanation for inserting a nasogastric tube for a client with acute peritonitis. This statement does not address the rationale or the benefits of the procedure. It may also cause anxiety and resentment in the client.

Choice D Reason: This is the correct choice because removing secretions and decompressing the stomach is the main Reason for inserting a nasogastric tube for a client with acute peritonitis. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. It can cause abdominal distension, pain, nausea, and vomiting. A nasogastric tube can suction out the gastric contents and reduce the pressure and irritation in the abdomen.