Author Question: The family members of a patient who has just been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with ... (Read 111 times)

notis · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The family members of a patient who has just been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with multiple traumatic injuries have just arrived in the ICU waiting room. Which action should the nurse take next?

a. Explain ICU visitation policies and encourage family visits.
b. Immediately take the family members to the patient's bedside.
c. Describe the patient's injuries and the care that is being provided.
d. Invite the family to participate in a multidisciplinary care conference.

Question 2

When evaluating a patient with a central venous catheter, the nurse observes that the insertion site is red and tender to touch and the patient's temperature is 101.8 F. What should the nurse plan to do next?

a. Give analgesics and antibiotics as ordered.
b. Discontinue the catheter and culture the tip.
c. Change the flush system and monitor the site.
d. Check the site more frequently for any swelling.

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Lack of information is a major source of anxiety for family members and should be addressed first. Family members should be prepared for the patient's appearance and the ICU environment before visiting the patient for the first time. ICU visiting should be individualized to each patient and family rather than being dictated by rigid visitation policies. Inviting the family to participate in a multidisciplinary conference is appropriate but should not be the initial action by the nurse.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The information indicates that the patient has a local and systemic infection caused by the catheter, and the catheter should be discontinued. Changing the flush system, giving analgesics, and continued monitoring will not help prevent or treat the infection. Administration of antibiotics is appropriate, but the line should still be discontinued to avoid further complications such as endocarditis.