A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a school-age child who was brought in by their parents and has scald burns to both hands and wrists. The nurse suspects physical abuse.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Initiating IV access on the palmar side of the client's wrist is not recommended. This area has many delicate structures and is prone to complications such as nerve damage. Choosing a safer, larger vein proximal to the wrist is a better practice.

Choice B rationale:

Inserting a larger gauge IV catheter is not necessary unless the client's condition or prescribed therapy specifically requires it. Using an unnecessarily large catheter can cause discomfort and increase the risk of complications, such as phlebitis.

Choice C rationale:

Choosing the client's dominant arm for IV access whenever possible is not a universally appropriate guideline. The choice of the arm should depend on the condition of the veins and the individual patient's circumstances. The nurse should assess both arms and choose the one with the most suitable and accessible veins.

Choice D rationale:

Selecting a site proximal to previous venipuncture sites is the correct action. Repeated venipuncture in the same area can cause phlebitis and compromise the integrity of the veins. Selecting a new site proximal to previous punctures helps to preserve vein health and reduce the risk of complications.

Choice A rationale:

Shellfish allergies are not a contraindication to receiving the influenza vaccine. The vaccine contains no shellfish-derived ingredients.

Choice B rationale:

Egg allergies are a contraindication to receiving the influenza vaccine. Traditionally, most influenza vaccines are prepared using eggs and can provoke allergic reactions in individuals allergic to eggs. However, individuals with a mild egg allergy can often receive the vaccine under medical supervision. It is crucial to assess the severity of the egg allergy and consult with an allergist or immunologist before administering the vaccine.

Choice C rationale:

Gelatin allergies are generally not a contraindication to receiving the influenza vaccine. While some vaccines contain gelatin, it is not a component of all influenza vaccines. If the specific vaccine being administered contains gelatin, it should be avoided in individuals with a gelatin allergy.

Choice D rationale:

Milk allergies are not a contraindication to receiving the influenza vaccine. Milk or dairy products are not typically included in the influenza vaccine formulation.