Author Question: What is the most important action needed when a patient is first started on an intravenous (IV) ... (Read 58 times)

maychende · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

What is the most important action needed when a patient is first started on an intravenous (IV) antibacterial drug?

a. Check the IV site every 4 hours for redness around the site and the presence of cordlike veins.
b. Check the drip rate every hour to ensure that the proper blood drug level is maintained.
c. Assess the patient's pulse, blood pressure, and respiratory effect every 15 minutes.
d. Assess the patient's white blood cell count daily to determine drug effectiveness.

Question 2

A patient receiving antibiotics for 3 days reports a skin rash over the chest, back, and arms. What is your first action?

a. Ask the patient whether he or she has ever developed a rash while taking another drug.
b. Reassure the patient that many people have this expected reaction to antibiotic therapy.
c. Ask the patient whether the rash itches, burns, or causes other types of discomfort.
d. Document the report as the only action.