A nurse wants to become more involved in nursing on a national level.
Which of the following organizations should the nurse join?

Choice A rationale:

Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein, often associated with pain, redness, and warmth at the catheter site. In this case, the client's catheter site is described as cool and taut, which is not consistent with the manifestations of phlebitis.

Choice B rationale:

Infection typically presents with signs such as redness, warmth, swelling, and pain at the catheter site. The description of the client's catheter site as cool and taut is not indicative of infection.

Choice C rationale:

The client's symptoms, including a cool and taut catheter site and IV fluid leaking, are indicative of infiltration. Infiltration occurs when IV fluids inadvertently enter the surrounding tissue instead of the vein. It can lead to localized swelling and discomfort.

Choice D rationale:

Circulatory overload is characterized by symptoms such as shortness of breath, elevated blood pressure, and tachycardia. These symptoms are not consistent with the client's description of a cool and taut catheter site with IV fluid leaking.

Findings that Could Increase Susceptibility to Infection:

1. Budesonide 6 mg PO daily:

   • Explanation: Budesonide is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation, often prescribed for conditions like Crohn's disease. While it helps manage inflammation, corticosteroids also suppress the immune system. This immunosuppressive effect can increase the client's susceptibility to infections.

2. BMI of 16:

   • Explanation: A BMI of 16 is considered underweight. Malnutrition or being underweight can weaken the immune system, making a person more susceptible to infections because their body lacks the necessary nutrients and energy to support immune function.

3. History of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus:

   • Explanation: Diabetes, particularly if not well-controlled, can impair the immune system and increase the risk of infections. High blood sugar levels can hinder the function of immune cells, making it easier for infections to develop and harder for the body to fight them.

4. New Diagnosis of Crohn's Disease:

   • Explanation: Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. This chronic inflammation can affect the body's ability to absorb nutrients, leading to nutritional deficiencies that impair the immune system. Additionally, the disease itself, especially when active, can increase the risk of infection.

Findings That Do Not Increase Susceptibility to Infection:

1. Hematocrit (Hct) of 47%:

   • Explanation: The Hct level is within the normal range of 37% to 52%. It measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. Since it's normal, it does not indicate an increased risk of infection.

2. Hemoglobin (Hgb) of 16 g/dL:

   • Explanation: The Hgb level is also within the normal range of 12 to 18 g/dL. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. This normal level does not suggest a higher risk of infection.

3. Potassium level of 3.6 mEq/L:

   • Explanation: Potassium levels are within the normal range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. This electrolyte level is unrelated to infection risk in the context provided.