The nurse is caring for a client receiving an intravenous medication that is a vesicant. The IV flow has stopped and there is pain, burning and swelling at the IV site. What action should the nurse take first?
Elevate the extremity on a pillow
Immediately remove the catheter
Keep the catheter in place
Place a cool compress on the area
The Correct Answer is B
B. When a client experiences symptoms of extravasation, such as pain, burning, and swelling, especially with a vesicant medication, the priority is to stop the infusion and remove the catheter immediately to prevent further tissue damage. Removing the catheter promptly helps minimize the amount of medication that may have leaked into the surrounding tissues.
A. Elevating the extremity on a pillow may help reduce swelling and discomfort in some cases, but it is not the first action the nurse should take when a vesicant medication has caused pain, burning, and swelling at the IV site.
C. Keeping the catheter in place is not advisable when extravasation has occurred, especially with a vesicant medication. Continuing the infusion could lead to further tissue damage and exacerbate the client's symptoms. Removing the catheter is necessary to prevent additional medication from entering the surrounding tissues.
D. While applying a cool compress may provide temporary relief from discomfort, it is not the first action the nurse should take when managing extravasation caused by a vesicant medication. The priority is to stop the infusion, remove the catheter, and assess the extent of tissue damage. Cool compresses may be used after the catheter removal to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. In respiratory alkalosis, the pH is elevated (alkalotic), the PaCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) is decreased (hypocapnia), and the HCO3 (bicarbonate) level may be within normal limits or slightly decreased due to compensatory mechanisms. In this option, the pH is elevated (7.54), the PaCO2 is decreased (25), and the HCO3 level is within normal limits (24). These findings support respiratory alkalosis.
B. pH 7.50, PaCO2 40, HCO3 28: In this option, the pH is elevated (7.50), the PaCO2 is within normal limits (40), and the HCO3 level is elevated (28). These findings are not consistent with respiratory alkalosis. Instead, they suggest metabolic alkalosis, where both the pH and bicarbonate levels are elevated.
C. pH 7.35, PaCO2 35, HCO3 22: In this option, the pH is within normal limits (7.35), the PaCO2 is within normal limits (35), and the HCO3 level is within normal limits (22). These findings are not consistent with respiratory alkalosis.
D. pH 7.32. PaCO2 48, HCO3 24: In respiratory alkalosis, the pH is elevated (alkalotic), the PaCO2 is decreased (hypocapnia), and the HCO3 level may be within normal limits or slightly decreased due to compensatory mechanisms. In this option, the pH is within normal limits (7.32), the PaCO2 is elevated (48), and the HCO3 level is within normal limits (24). These findings are not consistent with respiratory alkalosis.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
B. Increased mental acuity, or heightened alertness and cognitive function, is a characteristic response during the alarm stage of GAS. The body's stress response enhances mental focus and perception to help the individual recognize and respond to the stressor effectively.
C. During the alarm stage of GAS, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to the release of adrenaline (epinephrine) and norepinephrine. These hormones stimulate the kidneys to conserve water and sodium, leading to decreased urine output and increased urine retention. Therefore, increased urine retention is an expected physiologic manifestation in the alarm stage.
D. During the alarm stage, the sympathetic nervous system activation leads to bronchodilation, allowing for increased airflow to the lungs. This facilitates improved oxygenation of the blood and enhances the individual's ability to respond to the stressor by increasing oxygen delivery to tissues.
A. During the alarm stage of GAS, the body initiates the fight-or-flight response, which leads to the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones increase blood glucose levels through processes like glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis to provide energy for the body to respond to the stressor. Therefore, decreased blood glucose is not an expected manifestation in the alarm stage.
E. Decreased pupil size: During the alarm stage of GAS, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to the dilation of pupils (mydriasis). This allows for improved visual acuity and peripheral vision, enhancing the individual's ability to detect potential threats or stimuli in the environment.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
