The nurse calculates that a patient must receive 1.3 mL of an anti-infective agent. The dose is ordered IM. Which of the following choices demonstrates safe, evidence-based practice?
23g 1 in (2.54 cm) needle to the right deltoid. Use the acromion process as a landmark.
25g 0.5 in (1.3 cm) long needle to the left rectus femoris. Aspirate prior to injection.
27g 1.5 in (3.8 cm) long needle to the left vastus lateralis area. Massage area wearing clean gloves after injection.
21g 1.5 in (3.8 cm) needle to the right ventrogluteal area. Use Z-track technique.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice D Reason: 21g 1.5 in (3.8 cm) needle to the right ventrogluteal area. Use Z-track technique.
Choice A Reason:
Using a 23-gauge, 1-inch needle for an intramuscular (IM) injection in the deltoid muscle is generally appropriate for adults. The deltoid muscle is a common site for IM injections, especially for small volumes of medication (up to 2 mL). The acromion process is a correct landmark for locating the deltoid muscle. However, the deltoid muscle is not the best site for larger volumes or more viscous medications. Additionally, the needle length might not be sufficient for individuals with more subcutaneous fat, potentially leading to suboptimal medication delivery.
Choice B Reason:
A 25-gauge, 0.5-inch needle is typically used for subcutaneous injections rather than intramuscular injections. The rectus femoris muscle can be used for IM injections, but it is not the preferred site due to the potential for increased pain and discomfort. Aspiration before injection is a debated practice; current guidelines suggest that aspiration is not necessary for most IM injections, except when injecting into the dorsogluteal site, which is not recommended due to the risk of hitting the sciatic nerve.
Choice C Reason:
A 27-gauge, 1.5-inch needle is appropriate for IM injections, and the vastus lateralis is a suitable site, especially for infants and young children. However, massaging the injection site after administering an IM injection is not recommended. Massaging can cause the medication to disperse into the subcutaneous tissue, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing irritation or bruising.
Choice D Reason:
Using a 21-gauge, 1.5-inch needle for an IM injection in the ventrogluteal area is considered safe and effective. The ventrogluteal site is preferred for IM injections because it is free from major nerves and blood vessels, reducing the risk of injury. The Z-track technique is used to prevent medication from leaking into the subcutaneous tissue, ensuring that it remains in the muscle for proper absorption. This technique is particularly useful for medications that can stain or irritate the skin and subcutaneous tissue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used to manage acute agitation and anxiety. It works by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain. Lorazepam is often administered in emergency situations to quickly reduce agitation and prevent escalation to violence. Its rapid onset of action makes it an ideal choice for managing acute episodes of agitation and potential assault.
Choice B Reason:
Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer used primarily for the treatment of epilepsy and bipolar disorder. While it can help manage mood swings and prevent manic episodes, it is not typically used for the immediate management of acute agitation or aggression. Its effects are not rapid enough to address an escalating situation effectively.
Choice C Reason:
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder and to support smoking cessation. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, but it does not have the sedative properties needed to manage acute agitation or aggression. Therefore, it is not suitable for immediate intervention in a potentially violent situation.
Choice D Reason:
Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mood disorders. While it is effective for long-term management of anxiety and depression, it does not have the rapid calming effects required for managing acute agitation or potential assault. SSRIs generally take several weeks to achieve their full therapeutic effect.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The statement “The client is always aware that their behaviors are maladaptive” is incorrect. While individuals with neurotic behavior may sometimes recognize that their behaviors are maladaptive, this awareness is not consistent. Neurotic behaviors are often automatic and unconscious efforts to manage deep anxiety. Therefore, the client may not always be aware of the maladaptive nature of their actions.
Choice B Reason:
The statement “The client uses adaptive defense mechanisms to cope” is incorrect. Neurotic behavior typically involves the use of maladaptive defense mechanisms rather than adaptive ones. These mechanisms, such as denial, repression, or projection, are employed to manage anxiety and stress but do not effectively resolve the underlying issues. Adaptive defense mechanisms, on the other hand, are more constructive and promote healthier coping strategies.
Choice C Reason:
The statement “The client never has mood or personality changes” is incorrect. Neurotic behavior is often associated with mood swings and emotional instability. Clients with neurotic tendencies may experience frequent changes in mood and may struggle with regulating their emotions. Therefore, it is inaccurate to state that the client never has mood or personality changes.
Choice D Reason:
The statement “The client does not experience loss of contact with reality” is correct. Neurotic behavior, unlike psychotic behavior, does not involve a loss of contact with reality4. Clients with neurotic tendencies remain aware of their surroundings and can distinguish between reality and their internal experiences4. This characteristic differentiates neurotic behavior from more severe mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, where a loss of reality is a key feature.
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