During a clinical rotation on an orthopedic unit, a nursing student is caring for a 67-year-old patient who has undergone a knee replacement. The patient is complaining of pain at the IV site. The nursing student assesses the site and finds that the site is cool, blanched and slightly swollen. The student stops the IV and reports the situation to the nurse. What does the nursing student suspect?

D. The nurse should promptly notify the healthcare provider to discuss the allergy history and request an alternative antibiotic that is not structurally related to penicillin or cephalosporins. Examples of alternative antibiotics may include antibiotics from different classes such as macrolides or fluoroquinolones, depending on the indication and sensitivity profile.

A. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine that can help manage allergic reactions. However, it should not be used as a standalone precautionary measure for a client with a history of anaphylaxis to penicillin. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, and low blood pressure.

B. Before taking any further steps, the nurse should clarify and confirm the nature and severity of the client's allergic reaction to penicillin. Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction characterized by rapid onset and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Clarifying the history ensures accurate decision- making regarding the administration of cephalexin.

C. This is not recommended without further clarification and assessment. Given the history of anaphylaxis to penicillin, there is a significant risk of cross-reactivity with cephalosporins like cephalexin. Cephalosporins have a structural similarity to penicillin and can provoke allergic reactions in individuals with penicillin allergy, including anaphylaxis.

B. Swelling around the IV site or in the extremity (such as the fingers) can be a sign of infiltration. This occurs because the IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissues, causing localized swelling.

A. Blood backing up in the IV tubing could indicate issues like a clot in the line or a slow flow rate, but it does not specifically suggest infiltration. It might prompt the nurse to check for other issues such as patency of the IV line or the need for flushing.

C. A long red streak up the arm could indicate inflammation or infection along the vein (phlebitis) rather than infiltration. Phlebitis can be caused by mechanical irritation, chemical irritation from the IV fluids, or infection.

D. Tape coming off the IV needle suggests a need for re-securing the IV, but it does not directly indicate infiltration. However, if the tape is coming off, it's important to check the entire IV site to ensure the catheter is still properly inserted and there are no signs of infiltration or dislodgment.