A nurse has completed care procedures for a client who requires airborne precautions. Which of the following items of personal protective equipment (PPE) should the nurse remove first?

A. Apply a warm compress to the IV site: While warm compresses can sometimes help alleviate discomfort associated with certain IV complications, such as phlebitis or infiltration, they should not be applied until the cause of the pain is identified. In this case, removing the IV saline lock is the priority action to assess the site properly.

B. Remove the IV saline lock: Pain above the catheter site during flushing may indicate infiltration or phlebitis, both of which require intervention. Removing the IV saline lock allows the nurse to assess the site for signs of complications such as swelling, redness, or coolness to the touch. Once removed, the nurse can then determine the appropriate course of action, such as reinserting the IV at a different site, applying warm compresses, or notifying the healthcare provider if further evaluation or treatment is necessary.

C. Inject the solution more slowly while flushing the IV saline lock: Injecting the solution more slowly may reduce discomfort during flushing, but it does not address the underlying cause of the pain. If there is infiltration or another issue with the IV site, continuing to flush slowly could exacerbate the problem.

D. Apply firm pressure to the plunger of the syringe during the IV flush to improve patency: Applying firm pressure to the plunger of the syringe during flushing is not appropriate when the client reports pain above the catheter site. This action could potentially force fluid into surrounding tissues, worsening infiltration or causing additional discomfort. It is essential to address the pain and assess the IV site before attempting to flush the saline lock again.

A. Raise the bed to a comfortable height:
Raising the bed to a comfortable height is essential for proper body mechanics and preventing back strain. It ensures the nurse can perform the procedure efficiently and safely.

B. Stand on the left side of the bed:
While a left-handed nurse might prefer to stand on the left side for better access, this choice depends on the room layout and client position. Standing on the side where the nurse is most comfortable is essential, but it is not the primary action compared to ensuring proper bed height.

C. Raise the side rail on the working side of the bed:
Raising the side rail on the working side of the bed could obstruct the nurse's access to the client and is not generally recommended during procedures requiring close access to the client.

D. Use the non-dominant hand to insert the catheter:
The dominant hand, in this case, the left hand, should be used to insert the catheter for better control and precision. The non-dominant hand is typically used to hold the genitalia and provide stability.