A nurse is preparing to insert an IV catheter for an adult client.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Choose the most proximal site on the extremity selected.
Apply a cool compress for several minutes before insertion of the IV catheter.
Place the tourniquet below the proposed insertion site.
Place the extremity in a dependent position.
The Correct Answer is D
The nurse should place the extremity in a dependent position before inserting an IV catheter.
This helps to dilate the veins and make them more visible and easier to access.

Choice A is wrong because the nurse should choose a site that is distal to the most proximal site on the extremity selected.
This helps to preserve more proximal sites for future use if needed.
Choice B is wrong because applying a cool compress before insertion of an IV catheter can cause vasoconstriction and make it more difficult to access the vein.
Instead, a warm compress can be applied to help dilate the veins.
Choice C is wrong because the tourniquet should be placed above, not below, the proposed insertion site to help dilate the vein and make it easier to access.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A nurse can delegate the task of performing a simple dressing change to an assistive personnel.
Delegation is an essential nursing skill that allows a qualified healthcare worker, like an RN, to transfer routine and low-risk duties to nursing assistive personnel.
This frees up the RN’s time to address more pressing matters, including critical patients and tasks.

Choice A is wrong because changing IV tubing is not a task that can be delegated to assistive personnel.
Choice C is wrong because inserting an NG tube is not a task that can be delegated to assistive personnel.
Choice D is wrong because evaluating the healing of an incision is not a task that can be delegated to assistive personnel.
These tasks require the expertise and training of a licensed nurse.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse should use the abbreviation “BRP” for bathroom privileges.
This is a commonly accepted abbreviation in the medical field and is used to indicate that a client has permission to use the bathroom.
Choice A is not the correct answer because “SC” is not a commonly accepted abbreviation for subcutaneous.
Instead, “SQ” or “SubQ” are more commonly used.
Choice B is not the correct answer because “SS” is not a commonly accepted abbreviation for sliding scale.
Instead, “Sliding Scale” should be written out in full to avoid confusion.
Choice D is not the correct answer because “OJ” is not a commonly accepted medical abbreviation for orange juice.
Instead, “orange juice” should be written out in full to avoid confusion.
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