HESI RN Nursing Leadership and Management Exam 5 Related

Review HESI RN Nursing Leadership and Management Exam 5 related questions and content

The client has received IV solutions for three (3) days through a 20-gauge IV catheter placed in the left cephalic vein. On morning rounds, the nurse notes the IV site is tender to palpation and a red streak has formed. Which action should the nurse implement first?

  • A. Start a new IV in the right hand.
  • B. Discontinue the intravenous line.
  • C. Complete an incident record.
  • D. Place a warm washcloth over the site.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The first action should be to discontinue the intravenous line to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombophlebitis. Starting a new IV in the right hand is not the priority as addressing the current issue is important. Completing an incident record can be done after addressing the immediate concern of the IV site. Placing a warm washcloth over the site does not address the red streak and tenderness, which may indicate an infection that requires discontinuation of the IV line.