The nurse is preparing to administer 1.6 mL of medication intramuscularly to a 4-month-old infant. Which action should the nurse include?
Select a 22 gauge 1 1/2 inch (3.8 cm) needle for the intramuscular injection.
Divide the medication into two injections with volumes under 1 mL.
Administer into the deltoid muscle while the parent holds the infant securely.
Use a quick dart-like motion to inject into the dorsogluteal site.
The Correct Answer is B
Administering a large volume of medication in a single injection is not recommended for infants as it can lead to discomfort, tissue trauma, and potential complications such as muscle fibrosis or nerve injury. Dividing the medication into two injections with volumes under 1 mL is a common practice for infants and can help minimize discomfort and complications.
In addition, the nurse should select an appropriate needle size and injection site based on the infant's size and age. A 22 gauge 1 1/2 inch (3.8 cm) needle is too large for an infant and may cause discomfort and tissue damage. The nurse should use a smaller gauge needle and choose an appropriate injection site, such as the vastus lateralis muscle in the thigh or the dorsogluteal muscle in the buttocks, based on the infant's age and size.
Finally, administering an injection into the deltoid muscle is not recommended for infants as this muscle is not fully developed until later in childhood. Using a quick dart-like motion to inject into the dorsogluteal site is also not recommended as it can cause tissue damage and discomfort. Instead, the nurse should use a slow, steady technique to administer the injection while ensuring the infant is held securely by the parent or another caregiver.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This option is unnecessary because droplet precautions do not require a particulate filter mask. Particulate filter masks are needed for airborne precautions. Sending the UAP for fitting delays care without providing additional safety benefits for droplet precautions.
B) While a standard face mask is appropriate for droplet precautions, the part about getting fitted for a filter mask is unnecessary. It implies that a particulate filter mask is needed, which it is not for droplet precautions. This option also incorrectly suggests that vital signs can be obtained with a standard mask, but personal care requires a particulate filter mask, which is not accurate.
C) Droplet precautions require the use of a standard face mask, not a particulate filter mask (such as an N95 respirator). Particulate filter masks are required for airborne precautions, which are necessary for diseases like tuberculosis, measles, or chickenpox. For droplet precautions, a standard surgical mask is adequate to prevent the transmission of infections like influenza. Thus, the UAP can safely provide care to the client with flu-like symptoms by wearing a standard face mask.
D) This option is unnecessary because a particulate filter mask is not required for droplet precautions. Changing assignments based on this criterion is not needed and could disrupt the workflow without enhancing safety. The focus should be on ensuring staff understand and use the appropriate PPE for droplet precautions.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The client's serum potassium level is elevated at 6.0 mEq/L (6.0 mmol/L), which is above the normal reference range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L).
Hyperkalemia can have significant cardiac implications, including the potential for life-threatening dysrhythmias. Therefore, close monitoring of the serum potassium level is crucial to assess the effectiveness of interventions and ensure that potassium levels are within a safe range.
While monitoring glucose levels before and after meals is important for clients receiving insulin therapy, in this scenario, the primary concern is the elevated potassium level.
The nurse should prioritize frequent assessment of the serum potassium level to guide appropriate management and prevent complications associated with hyperkalemia.
Monitoring and documenting strict intake and output are important for assessing fluid balance and renal function, but in this case, the elevated potassium level takes precedence as it poses a more immediate risk to the client's well-being.
Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) daily may be indicated in some cases of hyperkalemia, as certain ECG changes can be associated with elevated potassium levels. However, the more critical aspect is monitoring the potassium level itself, as ECG changes can occur rapidly and may not always be detectable on a daily basis.
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.
