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The nurse is caring for a patient who has a temporary percutaneous dialysis catheter in place. In caring for this patient, the nurse should

  • A. apply a sterile gauze dressing to maintain sterility.
  • B. replace the transparent dressing every 10 days to prevent manipulation.
  • C. assess the catheter site for redness and/or swelling.
  • D. use the catheter for drawing blood samples to reduce patient discomfort.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because assessing the catheter site for redness and/or swelling is essential in monitoring for signs of infection or complications. Redness and swelling can indicate infection, which requires prompt intervention.

A: Applying a sterile gauze dressing is not necessary for a temporary percutaneous dialysis catheter unless specified by the healthcare provider.
B: Transparent dressings are typically left in place for several days unless there is a specific reason to change them more frequently.
D: Using the catheter for drawing blood samples is not recommended as it can increase the risk of infection and may interfere with the dialysis process.