Nokea
The nurse is caring for a client with an intravenous infusion of normal saline. The client reports pain and swelling at the IV site. What is the nurse's priority action?
- A. Slow the rate of infusion
- B. Apply a warm compress to the site
- C. Discontinue the IV infusion
- D. Elevate the affected arm
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV infusion (Choice C). Pain and swelling at the IV site can indicate infiltration or phlebitis, which are serious complications that require immediate action. Slowing the rate of infusion (Choice A) may not address the underlying issue and can potentially worsen the condition. Applying a warm compress (Choice B) may provide temporary relief but does not address the need to discontinue the infusion. Elevating the affected arm (Choice D) is not the priority in this situation; discontinuing the infusion takes precedence to prevent further harm.
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The nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder who has been prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). What is the most important teaching point?
- A. Take the medication with food.
- B. Expect to see improvement within 24 hours.
- C. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice.
- D. Report any thoughts of self-harm immediately.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Report any thoughts of self-harm immediately.' Clients prescribed SSRIs should be educated to report any thoughts of self-harm promptly, as these medications can initially increase suicidal ideation. Choice A is incorrect because SSRIs are usually taken on an empty stomach. Choice B is incorrect as it takes several weeks for SSRIs to reach their full effectiveness. Choice C is irrelevant to SSRI therapy.
The nurse is monitoring a client's intravenous infusion and observes that the venipuncture site is cool to the touch, swollen, and the infusion rate is slower than the prescribed rate. What is the most likely cause of this finding?
- A. The solution's rate is too rapid
- B. The client has phlebitis
- C. The infusion site is infected
- D. The infusion is infiltrated
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. An infiltrated IV occurs when fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue, causing coolness, swelling, and a slow infusion rate. Choice A is incorrect because a rapid solution rate does not typically cause these specific symptoms. Choice B, phlebitis, presents with redness, warmth, and tenderness along the vein, not coolness. Choice C, infection, usually manifests with redness, warmth, and possibly purulent drainage, not coolness and swelling.
The healthcare provider reviews the laboratory results of a client whose serum pH is 7.38. What does this value imply about the client's homeostasis?
- A. Alkalosis
- B. Acidosis
- C. Normal serum pH
- D. Incompatible with life
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A pH of 7.38 falls within the normal range (7.35-7.45), indicating that the client's acid-base balance is adequately maintained. Choices A and B are incorrect as alkalosis and acidosis refer to abnormal pH levels. Choice D is incorrect as a pH of 7.38 within the normal range is compatible with life.
A client with a diagnosis of chronic heart failure is prescribed digoxin. What is the most important assessment before administering this medication?
- A. Check blood pressure
- B. Assess heart rate
- C. Monitor respiratory rate
- D. Measure oxygen saturation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is to assess the heart rate before administering digoxin. Digoxin can lead to bradycardia, making it crucial to evaluate the heart rate to prevent potential complications. Checking blood pressure (Choice A) is important but not as critical as assessing the heart rate in this context. Monitoring respiratory rate (Choice C) and measuring oxygen saturation (Choice D) are not the most crucial assessments before administering digoxin, as the primary concern with this medication is its impact on heart rate.
The nurse is assessing a client with cirrhosis who has developed ascites. What is the most important intervention to include in the care plan?
- A. Restrict sodium intake
- B. Encourage high-protein meals
- C. Increase fluid intake
- D. Administer diuretics as prescribed
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is to administer diuretics as prescribed. Diuretics are often prescribed to help manage fluid accumulation in ascites, which is a common complication of cirrhosis. Restricting sodium intake (Choice A) is essential in managing ascites, but administering diuretics takes precedence in the care plan. Encouraging high-protein meals (Choice B) and increasing fluid intake (Choice C) are not the primary interventions for managing ascites in cirrhosis.