A nurse is preparing to infuse a 250-mL unit of packed RBCs over 2 hours. The drop factor of the manual IV tubing is 15 gtts/mL. The nurse should adjust the flow rate to deliver how many drops per minute?

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

Choice A reason:

The purpose of a Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain is not to eliminate the need for wound irrigations. Wound irrigation is a critical step in wound care that helps remove debris, reduce bacterial load, and create an optimal environment for healing. The JP drain helps manage fluid accumulation but does not replace the need for proper wound irrigation.

Choice B reason:

While a JP drain can help manage bleeding by providing a pathway for blood to exit the wound, its primary purpose is not to limit bleeding. Instead, it is designed to prevent the accumulation of fluids such as blood, serous fluid, and other exudates that can impede healing and increase the risk of infection. Managing bleeding typically involves other interventions such as surgical hemostasis techniques.

Choice C reason:

The primary purpose of a Jackson-Pratt drain is to prevent fluid from accumulating in the wound. After surgery, wounds can produce various fluids, including blood and lymphatic fluid. Accumulation of these fluids can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. The JP drain uses gentle suction to draw these fluids away from the wound site, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of complications.

Choice D reason:

A JP drain is not typically used to provide a means for medication administration. Medications are usually administered through other routes such as oral, intravenous, or through specialized catheters designed for medication delivery. The JP drain is specifically designed for fluid drainage and not for delivering medications.

Choice A reason: Cardiac glycosides are primarily used to treat heart conditions such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation. They do not typically affect bone density or contribute to osteoporosis.

Choice B reason: Thyroid hormones can increase the risk of osteoporosis, especially if taken in excess. Over-replacement of thyroid hormone can accelerate bone loss, leading to decreased bone density and increased fracture risk.

Choice C reason: Anticoagulants are used to prevent blood clots but are not generally associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis. Their primary side effects are related to bleeding and bruising.

Choice D reason: NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are used to reduce inflammation and pain. They do not typically affect bone density or contribute to osteoporosis.