A nurse is assessing a client’s peripheral IV during hourly rounding. The nurse notices the site has erythema, warmth, edema, and a red line traveling up the vessel. Which complication would the nurse identify this client has?
Thrombophlebitis
Infiltration
Infection
Extravasation
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Thrombophlebitis is characterized by inflammation of the vein with the formation of a blood clot. The signs and symptoms include erythema, warmth, edema, and a red line traveling up the vessel, which indicates the presence of inflammation and possible clot formation. This condition requires prompt intervention to prevent further complications such as the spread of infection or the clot traveling to other parts of the body.
Choice B reason: Infiltration occurs when IV fluid or medication leaks into the surrounding tissue. Signs of infiltration include swelling, discomfort, and coolness at the IV site, but it does not typically present with erythema, warmth, or a red line traveling up the vessel. Infiltration is less likely to cause the systemic signs seen in this case.
Choice C reason: Infection at the IV site can cause erythema, warmth, and edema, but it usually does not present with a red line traveling up the vessel. The red line is more indicative of thrombophlebitis, where the inflammation follows the path of the vein. Infection would also likely present with additional systemic signs such as fever.
Choice D reason: Extravasation involves the leakage of vesicant drugs into the surrounding tissue, causing severe local tissue damage. Signs include pain, burning, and blistering at the site, but it does not typically present with a red line traveling up the vessel. Extravasation is more localized and does not follow the vein’s path like thrombophlebitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Lubricate the suction catheter tip with sterile saline is important to ensure smooth insertion and reduce trauma to the tracheal mucosa. However, this is not the first step. Preoxygenation is crucial to prevent hypoxia during the suctioning process.
Choice B Reason:
Perform chest physiotherapy prior to suctioning can help mobilize secretions, making them easier to remove. While beneficial, it is not the immediate first step. Ensuring the client is adequately oxygenated takes precedence.
Choice C Reason:
Hyperventilate the client on 100% oxygen prior to suctioning is correct. This step is essential to prevent hypoxia during suctioning. Suctioning can temporarily reduce oxygen levels, so preoxygenating the client helps maintain adequate oxygenation throughout the procedure.
Choice D Reason:
Suction two to three times with a 60-second pause between passes is a recommended practice to allow the client to recover between suctioning attempts. However, this step follows the initial preoxygenation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
“Call the provider” is important but not the first priority. The immediate concern is to maintain the client’s intravenous access to ensure they can receive any necessary medications or fluids promptly. Once the line is secured, the provider should be notified to receive further instructions and manage the client’s condition.
Choice B Reason:
“Notify the blood bank” is also crucial but comes after ensuring the client’s immediate safety. The blood bank needs to be informed to investigate the cause of the reaction and prevent further issues, but this step follows the initial emergency interventions.
Choice C Reason:
“Collect a urine specimen” is necessary to check for hemolysis, which can occur during a transfusion reaction. However, this is not the first step. The priority is to stabilize the client by maintaining IV access with normal saline.
Choice D Reason:
“Keep the line open with 0.9% NS through new tubing” is the correct first intervention. This action ensures that the client remains hydrated and that the IV line is available for any emergency medications or treatments. Using new tubing prevents any contamination from the transfusion set.
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