A nurse is preparing to insert an IV catheter for a client.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Select a site on the client’s dominant arm
Apply a tourniquet below the venipuncture site
Elevate the client’s arm prior to insertion
Choose a vein that is palpable and straight
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is choice D. The nurse should choose a vein that is palpable and straight for IV catheter insertion.
This will facilitate the insertion of the catheter and reduce the risk of complications such as infiltration, phlebitis, or hematoma. A straight vein will also allow the catheter to be inserted up to the hub, which reduces the risk of contamination along the length of the catheter.
Choice A is wrong because selecting a site on the client’s dominant arm can interfere with the client’s mobility and increase the risk of dislodging the catheter. The nurse should choose a site on the client’s non-dominant arm, preferably on the hand or forearm.
Choice B is wrong because applying a tourniquet below the venipuncture site will impede blood flow and make it harder to locate a suitable vein. The nurse should apply a tourniquet above the venipuncture site, about 10 to 15 cm from the insertion site.
Choice C is wrong because elevating the client’s arm prior to insertion will decrease venous filling and make it harder to palpate a vein. The nurse should lower the client’s arm below the level of the heart to increase venous distension.
Normal ranges for IV catheter size and insertion angle depend on several factors, such as the type and duration of therapy, the condition and size of the vein, and the age and preference of the client.
In general, smaller gauge catheters (20 to 24) are preferred for peripheral IV therapy, and larger gauge catheters (14 to 18) are used for rapid fluid administration or blood transfusion. The insertion angle can vary from 10 to 30 degrees, depending on the depth and location of the vein.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is d. Evaluate functioning of the suction device.
Choice D rationale:
- Prompt assessment of the suction device is crucial to determine if it's functioning properly.If the suction is inadequate,it can lead to gastric contents accumulating and potentially causing vomiting.
- Assessing the suction device first allows for timely interventionif it's not working correctly,preventing further complications and discomfort for the client.
Choice A rationale:
- Replacing the NG tube might be necessary if it's dislodged or blocked, but it shouldn't be the immediate action.
- Evaluating the suction device first can help determine if the NG tube itself is the issue or if the problem lies with the suction.
Choice B rationale:
- Providing oral hygiene care is important for comfort and to prevent aspiration, but it's not the priority intervention in this situation.
- Addressing the cause of the vomiting, which could be related to suction malfunction, takes precedence.
Choice C rationale:
- Administering an antiemetic might be helpful to control nausea and vomiting, but it doesn't address the underlying cause.
- Evaluating the suction device first is essential to ensure proper gastric decompression and prevent further vomiting episodes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation

These are signs of severe dehydration in an infant, which can be life-threatening and should be reported to the provider immediately. The infant may need intravenous fluids and electrolytes to restore hydration and prevent complications.
Choice B is wrong because a temperature of 38° C (100.4° F) and pulse rate of 124/min are not abnormal for an infant and do not indicate severe dehydration. These are common findings in an infant who has gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite.
Choice C is wrong because decreased appetite and irritability are also common findings in an infant who has gastroenteritis, but they do not indicate severe dehydration. The nurse should encourage oral rehydration with fluids such as breast milk, formula, or oral electrolyte solution.
Choice D is wrong because pale skin and a 24-hr fluid deficit of 30 mL are not signs of severe dehydration in an infant.
A fluid deficit of 30 mL is less than 1 oz and is not significant for an infant who weighs about 10 kg (22 lbs). A fluid deficit of more than 10% of body weight would indicate severe dehydration.
Normal ranges for vital signs in infants are as follows:
- Temperature: 36.5° C to 37.5° C (97.7° F to 99.5° F)
- Pulse rate: 100 to 160/min
- Respiratory rate: 30 to 60/min
- Blood pressure: 65/41 to 100/50 mm Hg
Normal ranges for fluid intake and output in infants are as follows:
- Fluid intake: 100 to 150 mL/kg/day
- Fluid output: 1 to 2 mL/kg/hr
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