A nurse is teaching a client how to self-administer heparin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Use an 18-gauge, 1-inch needle to administer the medication.
Inject 5.1 cm (2 in) away from the umbilicus.
Expel air bubble before injecting medication.
Massage the injection site after withdrawing the needle.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Use an 18-gauge, 1-inch needle to administer the medication. An 18-gauge needle is too large for subcutaneous heparin injections, which require a smaller, finer needle, typically 25- to 27-gauge and ⅜- to ⅝-inch in length. The smaller gauge reduces discomfort and is appropriate for subcutaneous tissue.
B. Inject 5.1 cm (2 in) away from the umbilicus. Heparin injections should be given at least 2 inches from the umbilicus to avoid areas with dense blood vessels, which decreases the risk of hematoma formation and improves medication absorption.
C. Expel air bubble before injecting medication. For prefilled heparin syringes, the small air bubble should not be expelled, as it helps ensure the full dose is administered and can reduce bruising by sealing the medication in the tissue.
D. Massage the injection site after withdrawing the needle. Massaging the site after a heparin injection is not recommended as it increases the risk of bruising and tissue irritation. Instead, gentle pressure may be applied briefly if there is bleeding at the site.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Correct responses:
A. When preparing the medication dosage: Comparing the medication administration record with the medication label during preparation helps ensure the correct medication and dosage are being used.
B. Directly before administering the medication: This final check ensures that the medication being given matches the prescription and the right patient, minimizing the risk of errors.
D. When removing the medication from the medication drawer: This initial check ensures that the medication being retrieved is the correct one as per the medication administration record.
The other options are not directly related to verifying the medication administration record against the medication label:
C. When reconciling counts of controlled substances: This is important for ensuring accurate inventory but is not related to verifying medication administration.
E. At the end of the shift: This is not a time for verifying medication records and labels; it’s more related to end-of-shift documentation and handoff.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Four-point alternating gait:
This gait involves a more natural and stable walking pattern. However, it requires weight-bearing on both legs, which may not be suitable for a client who can only bear weight on one leg.
B. Swing-through gait:
The swing-through gait is typically used by clients with bilateral lower extremity weakness. It involves swinging both legs through while supporting weight on the crutches. This gait is not suitable for a client who can only bear weight on one leg.
C. Three-point gait:
This gait is appropriate for a client who can only bear weight on one leg. In a three-point gait, the client uses crutches and swings or hops the non-weight-bearing leg forward, landing on the good leg. This gait provides stability and reduces weight-bearing on the affected leg.
D. Two-point alternating gait:
In a two-point alternating gait, the client advances the crutch and the opposite foot simultaneously. This gait is more energy-efficient than the four-point gait but requires weight-bearing on both legs. It is not suitable for a client who can only bear weight on one leg.
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