A nurse is teaching a client about self-administering a subcutaneous injection to the abdomen. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Select an injection site on the abdomen 5 cm (2 in) from the umbilicus.
Expel the air bubble in a prefilled syringe before injecting the medication.
Aspirate prior to injecting the medication.
Insert the needle at a 15° angle.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Selecting a site at least 5 cm (2 in) away from the umbilicus is essential because the tissue around the navel is often tougher and has altered vascularity, which can lead to inconsistent medication absorption.
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Choice B rationale: Air bubbles in prefilled syringes, such as those used for enoxaparin, should not be expelled. The air bubble is designed to be injected last to seal the medication within the subcutaneous tissue and prevent leakage.
Choice C rationale: Aspiration is no longer recommended for subcutaneous injections. There are no large blood vessels in the subcutaneous layer, and aspiration increases the risk of tissue trauma, hematoma formation, and client discomfort.
Choice D rationale: Subcutaneous injections should be administered at a 45° to 90° angle, depending on the amount of subcutaneous fat available. A 15° angle is used specifically for intradermal injections, such as TB skin tests.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While the abbreviation "MSO4" represents morphine sulfate, it is safer to spell out the medication name to prevent misinterpretation. Also, the use of "cc" for volume and lack of clarity in timing make this option less desirable.
Choice B rationale:
(Correct Choice) This option correctly identifies the medication, includes the dose (4 mg), specifies the route (IV), indicates the timing (daily at 0900 before dressing changes), and provides instructions for dilution (5 mL of sterile water).
Choice C rationale:
Using "Q.D." is an abbreviation for "every day" and might lead to confusion due to unfamiliarity. Additionally, using "cc" instead of "mL" and lack of clarity in timing reduce the accuracy of this transcription.
Choice D rationale:
Using "MSO4" and "cc" are potential sources of confusion. Also, the abbreviation "@9 AM" might not be universally understood, and "mL" is a more appropriate unit for volume.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Using the cane to support body weight is not the correct technique. The purpose of a cane is to provide balance and support, not to bear the entire body weight. Placing the entire body weight on the cane can lead to instability and falls.
Choice B rationale:
Placing the cane next to the unaffected leg (right leg in this case) is the correct technique. This positioning provides additional support and stability on the side opposite to the affected leg. This helps in maintaining balance and reducing the risk of falling.
Choice C rationale:
The type of cane is not as relevant as using it correctly. The material of the cane doesn't impact the client's understanding of how to use it safely. While using a wooden cane might be acceptable, the material itself is not an indication of the client's understanding of safe cane use.
Choice D rationale:
Moving the right leg forward first is not the correct technique for using a cane. The correct foot to move forward first is the affected leg, in this case, the left leg. This allows the client to maintain a stable base of support while moving.
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