A nurse is caring for an 8-month-old infant who is receiving intravenous (IV) fluids via a 24-gauge catheter. Which of the following statements by the client's mother indicates that the nurse should check the site for signs of infiltration?
"There's blood backing up my baby's IV tubing."
"My baby's fingers are looking swollen."
"There's a long red streak up my baby's arm."
"The tape is coming off the IV needle."
The Correct Answer is B
B. Swelling around the IV site or in the extremity (such as the fingers) can be a sign of infiltration. This occurs because the IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissues, causing localized swelling.
A. Blood backing up in the IV tubing could indicate issues like a clot in the line or a slow flow rate, but it does not specifically suggest infiltration. It might prompt the nurse to check for other issues such as patency of the IV line or the need for flushing.
C. A long red streak up the arm could indicate inflammation or infection along the vein (phlebitis) rather than infiltration. Phlebitis can be caused by mechanical irritation, chemical irritation from the IV fluids, or infection.
D. Tape coming off the IV needle suggests a need for re-securing the IV, but it does not directly indicate infiltration. However, if the tape is coming off, it's important to check the entire IV site to ensure the catheter is still properly inserted and there are no signs of infiltration or dislodgment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. The nurse should promptly notify the healthcare provider to discuss the allergy history and request an alternative antibiotic that is not structurally related to penicillin or cephalosporins. Examples of alternative antibiotics may include antibiotics from different classes such as macrolides or fluoroquinolones, depending on the indication and sensitivity profile.
A. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine that can help manage allergic reactions. However, it should not be used as a standalone precautionary measure for a client with a history of anaphylaxis to penicillin. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, and low blood pressure.
B. Before taking any further steps, the nurse should clarify and confirm the nature and severity of the client's allergic reaction to penicillin. Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction characterized by rapid onset and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Clarifying the history ensures accurate decision- making regarding the administration of cephalexin.
C. This is not recommended without further clarification and assessment. Given the history of anaphylaxis to penicillin, there is a significant risk of cross-reactivity with cephalosporins like cephalexin. Cephalosporins have a structural similarity to penicillin and can provoke allergic reactions in individuals with penicillin allergy, including anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Holding the skin taut helps stabilize the area and ensures that the needle penetrates the skin smoothly and at the correct angle. This also helps prevent the needle from going too deep or slipping out of the site during injection.
A. The syringe should be held at a 5 to 15-degree angle to the client's skin, not 20 degrees.
B. For a tuberculin skin test (PPD test), typically 0.1 mL (one-tenth of a milliliter) of PPD is injected intradermally. This is a very small amount compared to 0.5 mL.
C. The length of the needle for an intradermal injection is typically shorter than 1 inch, usually around 3/8 to 5/8 inches (10-16 mm). Using a longer needle may increase the risk of inserting the needle too deeply, potentially leading to subcutaneous rather than intradermal injection.
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