A nurse is preparing to infuse a 250-mL unit of packed red blood cells (RBCs) over 2 hours.

The drop factor of the manual intravenous (IV) tubing is 15 drops/mL. How many drops per minute should the nurse adjust the flow rate to deliver?

Choice A rationale

Chilling the irrigant prior to the procedure is not recommended. Cold irrigant can cause discomfort and potentially lead to vasoconstriction, which can impede the healing process.

Choice B rationale

Irrigating the wound until the solution that is draining is clean is a standard practice in wound care. This helps to ensure that all debris and potential contaminants are removed from the wound.

Choice C rationale

Holding the tip of the syringe at least 13 cm (0.5 in) above the wound while irrigating is not a standard practice. The syringe should be held close to the wound to ensure effective irrigation.

Choice D rationale

Flushing the wound from the most contaminated area to the cleanest area is not a standard practice. The wound should be irrigated from the cleanest to the dirtiest area to prevent the spread of contamination.

Choice A rationale

Dehydration is a common finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days. Symptoms of dehydration can include dark-colored urine, excessive thirst, fatigue, dizziness, or light-headedness.

Choice B rationale

Diarrhea does not typically cause decreased bowel sounds.

Choice C rationale

A rigid abdomen is not a typical finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days.

Choice D rationale

Hypothermia is not a typical finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days.