A nurse is caring for a client receiving IV therapy in the left forearm and notices that the site is red, swollen, and warm. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?
Discontinue the existing IV infusion.
Insert an IV catheter in the opposite extremity.
Apply warm, moist compresses to the site.
Elevate the extremity.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Discontinuing the existing IV infusion is the priority when signs of infection or inflammation are present at the site. This action helps prevent the spread of infection and allows for a thorough assessment of the site.
B. Inserting an IV catheter in the opposite extremity is not the first step. Before considering a new IV site, it's crucial to address the issue with the current site. Starting a new IV line before addressing the potential infection could lead to further complications.
C. Applying warm, moist compresses to the site is not the first action. While warm compresses can be used to promote blood flow and comfort, the priority is to discontinue the current infusion and assess for infection or inflammation.
D. Elevating the extremity is not the first action in response to signs of infection or inflammation at an IV site. The priority is to discontinue the infusion and assess the site for potential complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Request a dietary consult:
While dietary concerns may be addressed, checking vital signs is the priority when a client reports nausea, especially in the context of medication administration.
B. Check the client's vital signs:
This is the correct action. Nausea can be a symptom of digoxin toxicity. Checking vital signs, especially assessing for changes in heart rate, is crucial in determining whether the client is experiencing adverse effects of digoxin.
C. Request an order for an antiemetic:
Administering an antiemetic may be considered later, but the first priority is to assess the client's vital signs and determine if the nausea is related to digoxin toxicity.
D. Suggest that the client rests before eating the meal:
Resting before eating may be helpful for nausea, but the priority is to assess the client's vital signs and determine the cause of the nausea, especially in the context of digoxin use.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Inject the medication deep into the thigh muscle.
This statement is incorrect for subcutaneous heparin administration. Heparin is typically administered subcutaneously in the fatty tissue just under the skin, not into the muscle. Intramuscular injection is not appropriate for heparin.
B. Easy bruising indicates the medication is effective.
This statement is inaccurate. Easy bruising is not an indicator of the effectiveness of heparin. In fact, excessive bruising can be a side effect of anticoagulant therapy, indicating a potential issue with bleeding or clotting.
C. Expect stools to become black and tarry.
This statement is more relevant to medications like iron supplements or upper gastrointestinal bleeding. It is not a common side effect of subcutaneous heparin.
D. Use a soft bristle toothbrush.
This statement is correct. It is important for individuals on anticoagulant therapy, such as heparin, to use a soft bristle toothbrush to minimize the risk of bleeding and gum irritation. Hard bristle toothbrushes can cause gum bleeding, especially in individuals with a tendency for bleeding due to anticoagulant use.
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