The charge nurse observes a new nurse preparing to insert an intravenous (IV) catheter. The new nurse has gathered supplies, including intravenous catheters, an intravenous insertion kit, and a 4x4 sterile gauze dressing to cover and secure the insertion site. Which action should the charge nurse take?

Plan to observe the secured IV site after the insertion procedure.

Remind the nurse to tape the gauze dressing securely in place.

Confirm that the nurse has gathered the necessary supplies.

Instruct the nurse to use a transparent dressing over the site.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Plan to observe the secured IV site after the insertion procedure.
This is a proactive step, but it does not address the immediate need to correct the new nurse’s choice of dressing.

B. Remind the nurse to tape the gauze dressing securely in place.
While securing the dressing is important, it is not the best practice to use a gauze dressing for IV sites as it obscures the view of the insertion site.

C. Confirm that the nurse has gathered the necessary supplies.
Confirming supplies is important, but this does not address the incorrect dressing choice.

D. Instruct the nurse to use a transparent dressing over the site.
This is the correct answer because a transparent dressing allows for continuous visual inspection of the IV site for signs of infection or infiltration, which is crucial for patient safety.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Test the fluid on the dressing for glucose.
This is the correct action. Clear fluid on a dressing after lumbar spinal surgery could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Testing the fluid for glucose is essential because CSF contains glucose, whereas normal wound drainage does not. A positive glucose test would confirm the presence of CSF, indicating a potential complication that requires immediate medical attention.

B. Mark the drainage area with a pen and continue to monitor.
While monitoring the size of the drainage area can be useful, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse should first determine whether the clear fluid is CSF.

C. Change the dressing using a compression bandage.
Changing the dressing might be necessary, but using a compression bandage without first identifying the nature of the fluid could be inappropriate and potentially harmful if the fluid is CSF.

D. Document the findings in the electronic medical record.
Documentation is important, but it is not the immediate action. The nurse needs to identify the nature of the fluid first.

A. Monitor blood glucose level. B. Maintain strict intake and output. C. Keep head of bed raised 45 degrees. D. Assess warmth of extremities.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale for A: Monitoring blood glucose levels is important in septic patients as hyperglycemia can occur due to stress response, and insulin resistance may develop. However, it is not the most critical intervention for immediate stabilization.
Rationale for B: Maintaining strict intake and output is crucial for a patient in septic shock because fluid balance is a key component in managing shock. Accurate measurement of intake and output ensures appropriate fluid resuscitation, which is vital for maintaining blood pressure and organ perfusion.
Rationale for C: Keeping the head of the bed raised 45 degrees can help prevent aspiration, which is particularly important in patients who are at risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or those who are sedated. However, this is not the primary intervention for septic shock management.
Rationale for D: Assessing the warmth of extremities can provide information about peripheral circulation and may indicate the effectiveness of cardiac output. Nevertheless, it is not the most immediate concern in the management of septic shock.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse identifies the presence of clear fluid on the surgical dressing of a client who just returned to the unit following lumbar spinal surgery. Which action should the nurse implement immediately?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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