A nurse is monitoring a client following the insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing phlebitis at the insertion site?
Leakage of IV fluid
Blood leakage
Red streak
Purulent drainage
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Leakage of IV fluid: Leakage of IV fluid at the insertion site suggests infiltration, not phlebitis. In infiltration, fluid escapes into surrounding tissues, leading to swelling and coolness, but not inflammation of the vein itself.
B. Blood leakage: Blood leakage is usually related to poor catheter stabilization or improper insertion, not phlebitis. It does not indicate inflammation or irritation of the vein wall, which are hallmark signs of phlebitis.
C. Red streak: A red streak following the path of the vein is a classic sign of phlebitis. It indicates inflammation of the vein wall and is often accompanied by pain, warmth, and swelling along the vein.
D. Purulent drainage: Purulent drainage is a sign of infection rather than phlebitis. While phlebitis can lead to infection if untreated, purulent drainage points to a more serious complication involving bacterial growth.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Rationale:
• "Use sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive to light." Exophthalmos from Graves' disease can persist even after thyroidectomy. Sunglasses help reduce photophobia and protect protruding eyes from dryness and injury.
• "Continue eating foods with protein." Protein is essential for wound healing and energy. Postoperative hypermetabolic states can also increase protein needs, so adequate intake supports recovery.
• "You need to support your neck when coughing or moving." Neck support prevents strain on the surgical site and reduces the risk of wound dehiscence or hematoma formation during activities that increase intrathoracic pressure.
• "Remain on bedrest for 3 to 5 days following discharge." Prolonged bedrest is not recommended post-thyroidectomy. Early ambulation reduces risk of complications such as pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis and supports normal recovery.
• "You will no longer need to take any medications for your thyroid now that you have had surgery." Total or subtotal thyroidectomy often results in hypothyroidism, requiring lifelong thyroid hormone replacement (e.g., levothyroxine). Medication needs depend on the amount of thyroid tissue removed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake: Clients receiving continuous peritoneal dialysis may need to restrict fluids to prevent volume overload, depending on residual kidney function and dialysis efficiency. Encouraging increased intake without provider orders can be harmful.
B. Obtain the client's weight: Daily weight is a critical indicator of fluid balance and dialysis effectiveness. Monitoring weight helps determine if the dialysis is removing the appropriate amount of fluid and supports adjustments to the treatment plan.
C. Palpate the access site for a thrill: A thrill is a vibration felt over an arteriovenous fistula, which is used in hemodialysis, not peritoneal dialysis. Peritoneal dialysis uses a soft catheter in the abdomen and does not produce a thrill.
D. Auscultate the access site for a bruit: A bruit, a whooshing sound heard over a vascular access, is associated with AV fistulas used in hemodialysis. It is not relevant for peritoneal dialysis, which uses a catheter and does not involve high-pressure blood flow.
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.
