The nurse is performing a routine assessment of an IV site for a client receiving both IV fluids and medications through the line. The client reports tenderness when the nurse touches the arm above the site. Which finding should the nurse expect which will require immediate intervention?
A sluggish blood return
Cool sensation above the site
Iced streak tracking the vein
Circumferential skin irritation
The Correct Answer is C
A. A sluggish blood return: While a sluggish blood return may indicate potential issues with the IV line, it does not require immediate intervention unless accompanied by other signs of
complications.
B. Cool sensation above the site: Cool sensation above the site may indicate impaired circulation, but it is not as concerning as other findings requiring immediate intervention.
C. Iced streak tracking the vein: Correct! An iced streak tracking the vein suggests infiltration of IV fluids into the surrounding tissue, which can cause tissue damage and compromise the
effectiveness of the IV therapy. Immediate intervention is needed to prevent further complications.
D. Circumferential skin irritation: Circumferential skin irritation may indicate an allergic reaction or contact dermatitis, which requires attention but is not as urgent as an infiltration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Determining the need for urinary catheterization is within the scope of a registered nurse (RN), as it involves assessment and clinical judgment. A practical nurse (PN) does not independently determine the need for catheterization.
B. Titrating oxygen within prescribed parameters is an appropriate task for a PN, as it involves following provider orders and monitoring the client's response while working under RN supervision.
C. Receiving a postoperative client and conducting the initial assessment requires comprehensive assessment skills, which fall within the RN's scope of practice rather than the PN's.
D. Evaluating and updating plans of care require critical thinking and clinical decision-making, which are responsibilities of the RN. The PN can contribute to care but does not independently evaluate or modify care plans.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Placing an indwelling urinary catheter and measuring strict intake and output may be necessary for comprehensive assessment and management but is not the priority action in this situation, which suggests a possible stroke.
B. Keeping the bed in the lowest position and initiating seizure and fall precautions are important for safety, but the client's symptoms are suggestive of a stroke, and immediate evaluation and potential treatment are needed.
C. Starting two large-bore IV catheters and reviewing inclusion criteria for IV fibrinolytic therapy is the priority action. The client's symptoms, including right-sided weakness and sluggish speech, suggest a potential ischemic stroke. IV fibrinolytic therapy (e.g., tissue plasminogen activator) is time-sensitive and may be indicated for eligible patients with acute ischemic stroke.
D. Maintaining elevated positioning of the dependent joints on the affected side is not the priority action in this situation. Immediate assessment and potential treatment for a suspected stroke are needed.
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