A nurse is caring for a client who is taking azathioprine to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following laboratory values indicates an adverse effect of this medication?

A. A vein that feels hard to the touch:
A vein that feels hard to the touch may indicate thrombosis or inflammation and is not a suitable site for catheter insertion.
B. A vein in the client's dominant arm:
The choice of arm may depend on the client's preference, but it is not a strict rule. The nurse can choose a suitable vein in either arm based on factors such as accessibility and vein condition.
C. A vein proximal to the previous site:
This is the correct answer. Placing the catheter proximal (above or upstream) to the previous site helps minimize the risk of complications such as infiltration and thrombophlebitis at the new site. It allows for optimal vein health and reduces the likelihood of complications associated with repeated punctures in the same area.
D. A vein on the client's wrist:
Veins on the wrist may be smaller and more prone to complications. It is generally recommended to choose larger, more accessible veins for catheter insertion.

A. Infiltration:
Infiltration refers to the inadvertent administration of a non-vesicant solution into the surrounding tissue. It is characterized by swelling, pallor, and coolness at the infusion site, but redness and inflammation along the vein are not typical signs of infiltration.
B. Extravasation:
Extravasation occurs when a vesicant solution (a substance that can cause tissue damage) infiltrates into the surrounding tissue. It can cause tissue damage and necrosis. While inflammation is a concern with extravasation, it is not the primary sign, and redness may occur later.
C. Venous spasm:
Venous spasm involves the constriction of the blood vessel, leading to decreased blood flow. It is not typically associated with redness and inflammation along the vein.
D. Phlebitis:
This is the correct answer. Phlebitis refers to inflammation of a vein, and it is characterized by redness, warmth, and tenderness along the course of the vein. Phlebitis can be caused by various factors, including irritants in the infused solution, mechanical trauma, or infection.