HESI RN CAT Exit Exam 1 Related

Review HESI RN CAT Exit Exam 1 related questions and content

A client who had an intraosseous (IO) cannula placed by the healthcare provider for emergent fluid resuscitation is complaining of severe pain and numbness below the IO site. The skin around the site is pale and edematous. What action should the nurse take first?

  • A. Discontinue the IO infusion
  • B. Administer an analgesic via the IO site
  • C. Elevate the extremity with the IO site
  • D. Notify the healthcare provider
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the client's symptoms of severe pain, numbness, pale skin, and edema below the IO site raise concerns for complications like compartment syndrome or extravasation. The priority action for the nurse is to discontinue the IO infusion to prevent further harm to the client. Administering an analgesic via the IO site or elevating the extremity with the IO site may delay addressing the potential serious complications. While notifying the healthcare provider is important, the immediate action to ensure client safety is to stop the infusion.