Which of the following complications can occur if a clotted cannula is flushed too aggressively?

The patient can experience speed shock

A clot can be forced into the circulation causing serious complications.

A painful arterial spasm can occur

The catheter can become dislodged and fall out.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. The patient can experience speed shock: Speed shock is a rapid infusion of a substance (like a medication or fluid) into the bloodstream, usually occurring when the infusion rate is too fast. This is not typically caused by flushing a clotted cannula.

B. A clot can be forced into the circulation causing serious complications: Flushing a clotted cannula too aggressively can dislodge a clot, causing it to travel into the bloodstream. This can lead to serious complications like embolism or stroke, especially if the clot is large or travels to a vital organ.

C. A painful arterial spasm can occur: While arterial spasms can occur, they are more often related to arterial catheterization or manipulation rather than flushing a venous cannula.

D. The catheter can become dislodged and fall out: While this could potentially happen, it is less of a concern compared to the risk of pushing a clot into circulation, which is a more immediate danger.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Potassium chloride: Potassium chloride is used to treat hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia.

B. Acetylcysteine: This medication is not used to treat potassium imbalances. It is primarily used to treat acetaminophen overdose or to thin mucus in respiratory conditions.

C. Sodium polystyrene: Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) is used to treat hyperkalemia by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestines, helping to lower serum potassium levels.

D. Potassium iodide: Potassium iodide is used in thyroid conditions (such as thyroid storm) or radiation exposure and is not used to manage potassium levels.

A. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L (3.5-5mEq/L) B. Urine specific gravity 1.035 (1.005-1.030) C. weight loss of 3% of total body weight. D. Blood glucose 150 mg/Dl

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: This critically low potassium level can cause life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias and requires immediate intervention.

B. Urine specific gravity 1.035: While indicative of dehydration, it is not life-threatening and can be addressed after correcting the potassium imbalance.

C. Weight loss of 3% of total body weight: Significant but not the most critical concern in the immediate term.

D. Blood glucose 150 mg/dL: Elevated but not urgent compared to the hypokalemia.

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Which of the following complications can occur if a clotted cannula is flushed too aggressively?

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