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 A
Explanation
When providing end-of-life care for a client, the nurse should encourage the client to make choices regarding their hygiene. This allows the client to have some control over their care and can help them feel more comfortable.
Option b is incorrect because offering the client sips of a citrus flavored soda may not be appropriate for all clients and should be based on individual preferences and needs.
Option c is incorrect because positioning the client supine in bed may not be comfortable for all clients and should be based on individual preferences and needs.
Option d is incorrect because suctioning the client's airway every hour may not be necessary and should be based on individual needs.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
If a client reports pain and informs the nurse that pain medications are not an option for managing their pain, the nurse can offer non-pharmacological interventions such as a back massage to help relieve the client's pain. This is an appropriate response by the nurse.
a. Telling the client that the pain medication will work if they just give it a chance is not an appropriate response as it dismisses the client's concerns and preferences.
b. The nurse should not recommend that the client take any herbal remedies without first consulting with the healthcare provider.
d. Asking the client why they think pain medication is not going to help them may be appropriate in some situations, but it is not necessarily the best initial response. The nurse should first offer non- pharmacological interventions to help relieve the client's pain.
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