Author Question: A home care nurse prepares to administer intravenous medication to a client. The nurse assesses the ... (Read 34 times)

KimWrice · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A home care nurse prepares to administer intravenous medication to a client. The nurse assesses the site and reviews the client's chart prior to administering the medication:

Client: Thomas Jackson
DOB: 5/3/1936
Gender: Male
January 23 (Today): Right upper extremity PICC is intact, patent, and has a good blood return. Site clean and free from manifestations of infiltration, irritation, and infection. -Sue Franks, RN
January 20: Purulent drainage from sacral wound. Wound cleansed and dressing changed. Dr. Smith notified and updated on client status. New orders received for intravenous antibiotics. -Sue Franks, RN
January 13: Client alert and oriented. Sacral wound dressing changed. -Sue Franks, RN
January 6: Right upper extremity PICC inserted. No complications. Discharged with home health care. -Dr. Smith
Based on the information provided, which action should the nurse take?
a.
Notify the health care provider.
b.
Administer the prescribed medication.
c.
Discontinue the PICC.
d.
Switch the medication to the oral route.

Question 2

A nurse is caring for a client who has just had a central venous access line inserted. Which action should the nurse take next?

a. Begin the prescribed infusion via the new access.
b. Ensure an x-ray is completed to confirm placement.
c. Check medication calculations with a second RN.
d. Make sure the solution is appropriate for a central line.

jordangronback · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
A PICC that is functioning well without inflammation or infection may remain in place for months or even years. Because the line shows no signs of complications, it is permissible to administer the IV antibiotic. There is no need to call the physician to have the IV route changed to an oral route.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
A central venous access device, once placed, needs an x-ray confirmation of proper placement before it is used. The bedside nurse would be responsible for beginning the infusion once placement has been verified. Any IV solution can be given through a central line.