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","C","F"]
Explanation
A.Swollen tongue: Swelling of the tongue can indicate an allergic reaction, which could progress to a severe condition known as anaphylaxis. Immediate intervention is necessary.
B. Heart rate: While the heart rate is not directly mentioned in the notes, an increase in heart rate could be a physiological response to an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Monitoring heart rate is crucial in assessing the severity of the reaction.
C. Bilateral breath sounds with scattered wheezing upon auscultation: Wheezing indicates a potential respiratory issue, and when associated with itching, urticaria, and swelling, it suggests an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Prompt intervention is needed.
D. Blood pressure: Although blood pressure is important to monitor, it is not directly mentioned in the nurses' notes. However, if anaphylaxis or a severe allergic reaction is suspected, blood pressure can be affected, and it should be monitored.
E. Temperature: Fever is not mentioned in the notes, and the information provided suggests an immediate allergic reaction rather than an infectious process. Monitoring temperature is generally important but may not be a priority in this specific context.
F.Urticaria (hives): Hives are a sign of an allergic reaction and, when accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, require immediate attention.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Cholesterol level:
While hyperlipidemia (elevated cholesterol levels) is associated with cardiovascular disease, it is not a direct factor affecting wound healing. Cholesterol levels primarily impact vascular health and are not directly related to the cellular and tissue processes involved in wound repair.
B. Prealbumin level:
Prealbumin is a protein that reflects recent dietary intake and nutritional status. Low prealbumin levels can indicate malnutrition, which is associated with delayed wound healing. Adequate protein intake is crucial for tissue repair and wound healing.
C. History of malnutrition:
Malnutrition is a significant risk factor for delayed wound healing. Adequate nutrition is essential for the body to carry out the processes involved in wound healing, including cell proliferation, collagen synthesis, and immune function.
D. History of diabetes mellitus:
Diabetes mellitus can impair wound healing due to factors such as reduced blood flow, impaired immune response, and neuropathy. Elevated blood sugar levels in diabetes can interfere with the normal healing processes, leading to delayed wound healing.
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