A nurse is teaching about preventing constipation to a client who has a new prescription for oxycodone. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason: Preventing leakage is not the primary purpose of flushing an intermittent infusion device. Flushing maintains patency by clearing blood or medication residue, preventing clots or blockages. Leakage is addressed by proper capping or clamping, not flushing, making this statement incorrect as it misrepresents the procedure’s purpose.
Choice B reason: Flushing an infusion device does not contribute to hydration, as the flush solution (typically saline) is minimal and not intended for fluid replacement. The purpose is to maintain catheter patency by clearing debris or clots. This statement is incorrect, as it inaccurately suggests a hydration benefit unrelated to the procedure.
Choice C reason: Flushing an intermittent infusion device with saline clears blood or medication residue from the catheter, preventing occlusion and maintaining patency. Blood left in the line can clot, increasing infection risk or blocking the device. This statement accurately reflects the procedure’s purpose, ensuring continued functionality for future medication administration.
Choice D reason: Flushing does not ensure sterility, as the device is already in place and exposed to the bloodstream. Sterility is maintained during insertion or access, not flushing. The primary goal is patency, not sterilization, making this statement incorrect as it misaligns with the procedure’s clinical purpose.

Choice A reason: Using gauze to cover an infant’s IV site obscures visualization, delaying detection of infiltration or infection. Transparent dressings are preferred, as infants’ small veins are prone to complications. Gauze increases risk by hiding signs like swelling, critical for early intervention in pediatric IV management.
Choice B reason: Monitoring an IV site every 8 hours is inadequate for infants, who need hourly checks due to small vein fragility and high infiltration risk. Frequent assessment detects complications like phlebitis or extravasation early, ensuring vascular integrity and preventing tissue damage in pediatric patients.
Choice C reason: Inserting an IV in the foot is less preferred, as scalp or hand veins are more accessible and stable in infants. Foot IVs risk dislodgement from movement and may impair circulation, increasing complications like tissue damage, making this a suboptimal choice for IV placement.
Choice D reason: A 24-gauge catheter is ideal for infants, as their small veins require smaller needles to minimize trauma and infiltration. This size ensures adequate fluid or medication delivery while reducing vascular damage, aligning with pediatric IV guidelines for safe and effective venous access.