The nurse is changing the subclavian dressing of a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition. When assessing the catheter insertion site, the nurse noticed the presence of a yellow drainage from around the sutures that are anchoring the catheter. Which actions should the nurse take first?
Administer a broad-spectrum antibiotic to prevent infection.
Notify the healthcare provider immediately and wait for further instructions.
Obtain a culture specimen of the drainage, apply a sterile dressing over the site, and monitor for any signs of infection.
Remove the sutures immediately to prevent further drainage.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Administering a broad-spectrum antibiotic is not the first action in this case. The first priority is to assess the situation and obtain a culture of the drainage to identify any infection before initiating antibiotics.
B. While notifying the healthcare provider is important, it is more important to take an initial action by obtaining a culture specimen. Waiting without taking action could delay appropriate care.
C. The best first action is to obtain a culture of the drainage to identify any potential infection, apply a sterile dressing, and continue to monitor the site for further signs of infection. Culturing the drainage helps guide the appropriate treatment.
D. Removing the sutures is not the appropriate action. The sutures should not be removed unless there is clear indication, as this could disrupt the integrity of the catheter placement.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) may cause symptoms like heartburn or dysphagia, but it would not explain the sudden, sharp pain or rigid abdomen seen with a perforated ulcer.
B. An intestinal obstruction can cause abdominal pain and distension, but the rigid, board-like abdomen is more characteristic of peritonitis from a perforated ulcer, not an obstruction.
C. Additional ulcers could cause pain and bleeding, but they would not explain the sudden, sharp pain and rigid abdomen that typically result from perforation.
D. The sudden onset of sharp, severe pain in the mid epigastric area, along with a rigid, board-like abdomen, are hallmark signs of a perforated ulcer, which causes peritonitis. This is a medical emergency, as the perforation allows gastric contents to leak into the peritoneal cavity, leading to widespread infection.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Administering anticoagulant medications is contraindicated in patients with bleeding esophageal varices. Anticoagulants could worsen bleeding and complicate the condition further. The goal in managing esophageal varices is to control the bleeding, not to increase the risk of bleeding.
B. Monitoring vital signs frequently is critical in patients with bleeding esophageal varices, as they are at risk for hypovolemic shock. Vital signs should be monitored closely to assess for signs of bleeding, hemodynamic instability, and response to interventions. Typically, more frequent monitoring (every 15 minutes initially, then every hour) is indicated, not just every 4 hours.
C. A high-fiber diet is not appropriate for patients with bleeding esophageal varices. This can increase intra-abdominal pressure and may worsen bleeding. The diet should be tailored to the patient's needs, typically involving low-residue or soft foods depending on their condition.
D. Assisting with the insertion and removal of the balloon tamponade device should be done by a skilled provider, not the nurse. The nurse's role involves monitoring for complications, ensuring proper positioning, and assessing the patient's response to treatment.
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.
