Which is the priority action of the nurse immediately after administration of an intramuscular injection?
Inform the patient that the injection is complete.
Assess the patient's level of comfort.
Engage the safety sheath over the needle.
Ensure that there is no bleeding at the injection site.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Informing the patient is secondary; it addresses communication but not immediate safety risks like needlestick injury, which is a higher priority post-injection per occupational health standards.
Choice B reason: Assessing comfort is important but not urgent; pain evaluation can wait after securing the needle, as safety from sharps exposure outweighs immediate patient feedback in priority.
Choice C reason: Engaging the safety sheath prevents needlestick injuries; it’s the priority action to protect the nurse and others from bloodborne pathogens, aligning with universal precautions post-injection.
Choice D reason: Checking for bleeding is routine but not critical; minor oozing is common and manageable later, while needle safety is an immediate concern to prevent infection risks.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Vastus lateralis is muscle; insulin given intramuscularly absorbs too fast, risking hypoglycemia, unlike the slower, safer subcutaneous route intended.
Choice B reason: Deltoid is also muscle; subcutaneous insulin isn’t given here as it’s not fatty enough, leading to unpredictable absorption rates versus abdominal tissue.
Choice C reason: Intravenous line is for IV drugs; insulin via IV is rare and only in emergencies, not standard subcutaneous orders, risking rapid overdose effects.
Choice D reason: Abdominal fat is ideal for subcutaneous insulin; it ensures steady absorption into capillaries, maintaining glycemic control per pharmacokinetic principles.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A 12-degree angle is too shallow, increasing the risk of incorrect placement and ineffective administration of the intradermal injection.
Choice B reason: The 15-degree angle ensures precise intradermal placement, forming a wheal that indicates proper administration into the dermis for optimal absorption.
Choice C reason: A 30-degree angle places the medication too deep into subcutaneous tissue, compromising intended drug absorption.
Choice D reason: A 45-degree angle results in subcutaneous rather than intradermal injection, altering the drug’s effectiveness and purpose.
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