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 C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Migraines are not a contraindication for propranolol. In fact, propranolol is used as a prophylactic treatment for migraines, as it reduces the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Choice B reason: Glaucoma is not a contraindication for propranolol. Propranolol does not affect the intraocular pressure or the drainage of aqueous humor in the eye.
Choice C reason: Asthma is a contraindication for propranolol. Propranolol is a nonselective beta-blocker, which means it blocks both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors in the body. Beta-2 receptors are found in the bronchial smooth muscle, and when they are blocked, they cause bronchoconstriction and increased airway resistance. This can worsen the symptoms of asthma and cause a life-threatening asthma attack.
Choice D reason: Depression is not a contraindication for propranolol. Propranolol does not cause depression, although it may cause some side effects such as fatigue, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction. However, these side effects are usually mild and reversible.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The Correct answer is A.
Choice A reason: Evaluating the client for nausea, vomiting, and anorexia is important because these are common signs of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside used to treat heart failure and certain arrhythmias, but it has a narrow therapeutic window. Toxicity can occur due to various factors, including renal insufficiency or drug interactions. Monitoring gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite can help detect toxicity early.
Choice B reason: Withholding digoxin if the heart rate is above 100/min is not typically recommended. Digoxin has a negative chronotropic effect, meaning it can decrease heart rate. However, the decision to withhold medication usually depends on a heart rate that is too low (bradycardia), not high. The normal range for resting heart rate in adults is 60-100 beats per minute. Therefore, withholding digoxin for a heart rate above 100/min without other clinical justifications would not be appropriate.
Choice C reason: Measuring the apical pulse rate for 30 seconds before administration is not the standard practice. The apical pulse should be measured for a full minute to ensure accuracy, especially in clients with heart failure who are receiving digoxin. This is because digoxin can cause arrhythmias, and a shorter measurement period may not provide a true representation of the heart's rhythm.
Choice D reason: Instructing the client to eat foods that are low in potassium is incorrect. Clients taking digoxin should maintain a normal potassium level, as hypokalemia can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. The normal serum potassium level is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. Foods high in potassium can help maintain this balance and should not be avoided unless there is a specific clinical indication, such as hyperkalemia.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.