A nurse is caring for a client who has a central venous catheter and reports hearing a gurgling sound on the side of the catheter insertion. Which of the following complications should the nurse suspect?
Catheter occlusion
Catheter migration
Catheter dislodgment
Catheter rupture
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A - Catheter Occlusion: This occurs when the catheter is blocked, preventing the flow of fluids or medication. It is usually indicated by difficulty in flushing the catheter or a slow drip rate¹. However, it does not typically cause a gurgling sound.
Choice B - (Catheter migration) is correct because when a central venous catheter (CVC) migrates from its original position, the tip can enter a smaller vein or a different location where turbulence occurs. This may cause the client to hear a gurgling or bubbling sound, especially during infusion or with position changes. Migration can happen due to coughing, movement, or changes in pressure, and it doesn’t necessarily involve the catheter being visibly out of place
Choice C - (Catheter dislodgment) is incorrect because dislodgment typically refers to the catheter being partially pulled out of the insertion site. This would be more likely to cause external signs like visible catheter movement or fluid leakage at the insertion site, rather than internal gurgling sounds. Gurgling is more associated with internal changes in catheter position, as seen with migration.
Choice D - Catheter Rupture: This is a break or tear in the catheter. It can cause serious complications, including infection and embolism. However, a gurgling sound is not a typical symptom of a catheter rupture¹.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Taking this medication with 8 ounces of water is not necessary. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets are designed to dissolve under the tongue and be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. Drinking water may interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of the medication.
Choice B reason: Taking one tablet at the first indication of chest pain is the correct instruction. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets are used to relieve anginal pain by dilating the coronary arteries and improving blood flow to the heart. The client should place one tablet under the tongue as soon as chest pain occurs and wait for it to dissolve.
Choice C reason: Taking one tablet every 15 minutes during an acute attack is not the correct instruction. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets have a short duration of action and may not provide adequate relief for a prolonged anginal attack. The client should follow the rule of three: take one tablet every 5 minutes for up to three doses. If the pain is not relieved after three doses, the client should call 911 or seek emergency medical attention.
Choice D reason: Taking this medication after each meal and at bedtime is not the correct instruction. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets are not used for the prevention of angina. They are only used for the treatment of acute anginal episodes. Taking this medication regularly may cause tolerance and reduce its effectiveness.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: The extra letters after the name of the medication do not mean it is a stronger dose, but that it is a combination of two different medications. Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that lowers blood pressure and heart rate, while hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that reduces fluid retention and blood volume. The combination of these two medications may have a synergistic effect and lower blood pressure more effectively than either one alone.
Choice B reason: The client will have to do some things differently because it is not the same medication, but a combination of two medications. The client will have to monitor their blood pressure, weight, fluid intake, and electrolyte levels more closely, as the addition of hydrochlorothiazide may increase the risk of dehydration, hypotension, and hypokalemia. The client will also have to avoid alcohol, salt, and potassium supplements, as they may interact with the medication and affect its efficacy or safety.
Choice C reason: The client will still have to diet to lose weight, as the medication does not cause weight loss, but may cause weight gain due to fluid retention. The client will have to follow a healthy diet that is low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol, as these may worsen hypertension and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. The client will also have to exercise regularly, as this may help lower blood pressure and improve overall health.
Choice D reason: The client may experience fewer side effects with the new medication, as the combination of metoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide may lower the dose and frequency of each medication, and reduce the adverse effects of each one. For example, metoprolol may cause fatigue, dizziness, or bradycardia, while hydrochlorothiazide may cause dry mouth, headache, or gout. The combination of these two medications may balance out these effects and improve the client's tolerance and compliance.
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