A nurse is monitoring a client who is receiving continuous IV fluid therapy via a peripheral vein in the left forearm. Which of the following findings indicates that the client has developed phlebitis at the IV site?
Erythema along the path of the vein
Coolness of the client's left forearm
Pallor of the client's left forearm
Pitting edema at the insertion site
The Correct Answer is A
The development of erythema (redness) along the path of the vein indicates phlebitis at the IV site. Phlebitis refers to inflammation of the vein, often caused by irritation or infection. When phlebitis occurs, the vein becomes inflamed and can appear red, warm, and tender to touch. Erythema is a characteristic sign of phlebitis and suggests that the client's IV site has become irritated or infected.
Let's now discuss why the other
Options are not the correct answers:
- Coolness of the client's left forearm: Coolness of the forearm is not typically associated with phlebitis. Instead, it may suggest compromised blood flow to the area, such as arterial insufficiency, rather than inflammation of the vein.
- Pallor of the client's left forearm: Pallor, or paleness, of the forearm is not a typical finding in phlebitis. It usually indicates reduced blood flow or decreased oxygenation to the area, which can be caused by factors other than inflammation of the vein.
- Pitting edema at the insertion site: Pitting edema refers to the indentation that remains when pressure is applied to an area of swelling and then release. While edema can occur at the insertion site of an IV, it is not a specific indicator of phlebitis. Edema can result from multiple causes, such as fluid overload or localized inflammation, and its presence does not necessarily confirm the presence of phlebitis.
In summary, the presence of erythema along the path of the vein is the finding that indicates the development of phlebitis at the IV site. This redness suggests inflammation of the vein, which can be caused by various factors including irritation or infection. The other
Options, such as coolness of the forearm, pallor of the forearm, or pitting edema at the insertion site, are not specific indicators of phlebitis and may be associated with different underlying conditions or factors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["F"]
Explanation
f) Skin surrounding the stoma is reddened and appears irritated.
The information that requires intervention by the nurse is that the skin surrounding the stoma is reddened and appears irritated. This may indicate that the client is experiencing skin irritation or breakdown, which can lead to infection or other complications. The nurse should assess the skin and initiate appropriate interventions to prevent further skin damage.
Options a, b, c, d, e, and g do not necessarily require intervention by the nurse. A pink ileostomy stoma and moderate brown liquid stool drainage are normal findings. The client's refusal to look at the stoma or learn about stoma care may be concerning, but it is not an immediate priority for intervention. An intake of 2,200 mL over 24 hours and a urine output of 650 mL over 24 hours are within normal limits.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
After moving clients to a safe location, the next action the nurse should take is to pull the fire alarm. This will alert others in the building to the presence of a fire and activate the building's fire suppression systems.
Options a, c, and d are not the next actions the nurse should take. Using an extinguisher to put out the fire may be appropriate if the nurse has been trained to do so and if it is safe to do so. Closing the doors to client rooms can help to contain the spread of smoke and fire, but it is not the next action the nurse should take. Turning off electrical equipment in the room may help to prevent further ignition sources, but it is not the next action the nurse should take.
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