A nurse is preparing to administer total parental nutrition (TPN) 1800 mL to infuse over 24 hr. The nurse should set the IV pump to deliver how many mL/hr?

(Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

A. Akathisia: Akathisia is characterized by restlessness and an inability to sit still. While it can be a side effect of antipsychotic medications like haloperidol, it does not present with fever, hypertension, and muscle rigidity, as described in the scenario.

B. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): NMS is a potentially life-threatening condition associated with antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. It is characterized by hyperthermia, autonomic dysfunction (e.g., hypertension), altered mental status, and severe muscle rigidity. The client's symptoms of fever, elevated blood pressure, and muscle rigidity are consistent with NMS.

C. Tardive dyskinesia: Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, tongue, and other body parts. It is a long-term side effect of antipsychotic medications and typically develops after prolonged use, unlike the acute onset seen in the scenario.

D. Agranulocytosis: Agranulocytosis is a rare but serious side effect of antipsychotic medications, characterized by a severe reduction in white blood cell count, leading to an increased risk of infection. The symptoms described in the scenario are not consistent with agranulocytosis.

Answer: (B, C, D, E)

Rationale:

A) Damp dressing: A damp dressing around the IV site is typically indicative of a leaking IV or infiltration, where fluid escapes from the vein into the surrounding tissue. This finding is not directly related to phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein.

B) Warmth at insertion site: Warmth at the insertion site is a common sign of phlebitis. The inflammation of the vein causes increased blood flow to the area, leading to localized warmth. This symptom is a key indicator that the IV site may be irritated or infected.

C) Streak formation: Streak formation, often seen as a red line running along the vein above the IV site, is a classic sign of phlebitis. It indicates inflammation and irritation spreading along the vein, which can occur due to the presence of the IV catheter.

D) Throbbing: Throbbing pain or discomfort at the IV site is another sign of phlebitis. The inflammation of the vein can cause pain that may be constant or increase with movement or palpation, indicating irritation or potential damage to the vessel.

E) Erythema: Erythema, or redness at the IV site, is a hallmark sign of phlebitis. The inflammation results in redness around the insertion area, which may spread along the vein, further indicating the presence of irritation or infection at the site.