A nurse is caring for a client who has a peritoneal catheter that requires a dressing change.
Identify the sequence of actions the nurse should take.
Apply precut gauze pads to the site.
Create a sterile field.
Mask self and the client.
Cleanse the site with povidone-iodine.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D,E
Choice E rationale
Removing the old dressing is the first step in a dressing change procedure. It must be done to visualize the site and assess for signs of infection or other complications. Proper removal also prevents contamination of the new dressing materials and allows for thorough cleansing of the area before a new dressing is applied, which is a critical step in maintaining aseptic technique.
Choice C rationale
Masking is a crucial step in maintaining a sterile field and preventing cross-contamination. Donning a mask protects the client from respiratory microorganisms of the nurse and protects the nurse from potential splashes or aerosolized particles from the client's catheter site. This step is performed after removing the old dressing but before creating the sterile field to minimize contamination risk.
Choice B rationale
Creating a sterile field is an essential step in preventing microbial contamination of the catheter site. A sterile field provides a clean, controlled environment for sterile supplies and equipment. The nurse must establish this field after donning a mask and before touching any sterile items to ensure that the materials used for the dressing change remain free of pathogens.
Choice D rationale
Cleansing the site with an antiseptic solution like povidone-iodine is a critical step to reduce the bacterial load and prevent infection. This action is performed after the sterile field is established but before applying the new dressing. The antiseptic solution disrupts microbial cell membranes and inactivates enzymes, thus reducing the risk of a catheter-associated bloodstream infection.
Choice A rationale
Applying precut gauze pads is the final step in the sequence. These pads provide a protective barrier over the cleansed site, absorb any drainage, and prevent environmental microorganisms from entering the site. This action is taken after the site has been thoroughly cleaned and dried, ensuring that the new dressing remains sterile and effective. *.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Encouraging the client to ambulate to the bathroom would be inappropriate and potentially harmful. The client is experiencing worsening pain, tingling, and is on a gurney en route to surgery for a fractured radius. Ambulation could exacerbate the injury, increase pain, and risk further complications. Mobility should be restricted until the fracture is stabilized and the client is post-operative.
Choice B rationale
This is the correct action as it assesses for potential complications of compartment syndrome, a critical and urgent condition. The worsening pain and tingling are classic symptoms. Compartment syndrome occurs when pressure builds within the fascial compartments, compromising circulation. A loss of peripheral pulses and delayed capillary refill are late signs of impaired circulation and are key indicators for this limb-threatening emergency.
Choice C rationale
Elevating the arm above the heart would decrease arterial blood flow to the injured extremity, which could worsen tissue perfusion and potentially lead to ischemia. For a client with a suspected circulatory compromise, such as with compartment syndrome, the arm should be kept at the level of the heart to maintain adequate blood flow.
Choice D rationale
Administering a sedative could mask the client's symptoms, particularly the level of pain and changes in mental status, which are crucial indicators of their deteriorating condition. The client's pain is a vital sign that needs to be continuously monitored, and sedation would hinder the nurse's ability to accurately assess for changes in their neurovascular status. .
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Crusting along the incision line is the result of dried serous fluid and blood, which is a normal part of the wound healing process during the inflammatory phase. This finding alone is not indicative of a surgical site infection, which is characterized by other signs.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of $37.2^\circ C$ ($99^\circ F$) is within the normal range for body temperature ($36.1^\circ C$ to $37.2^\circ C$ or $97^\circ F$ to $99^\circ F$). An elevated temperature, specifically a fever, is a systemic sign of infection. A low-grade fever might be a subtle sign, but this temperature is not high enough.
Choice C rationale
Pink coloration of the incision line is a normal finding in the early stages of wound healing, representing angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. This process is crucial for tissue repair and does not indicate a surgical site infection, which is typically characterized by erythema and warmth.
Choice D rationale
Swelling, or edema, is a classic sign of inflammation and infection. While some minor swelling is normal, swelling that extends significantly beyond the wound margins, such as 3.8 cm (1.5 in), indicates a heightened inflammatory response potentially due to bacterial proliferation and infection. *.
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.