A nurse assesses a client who has a peripherally inserted central ...

[stephzh]

A nurse assesses a client who has a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). For which complications should the nurse assess? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Phlebitis
  b. Pneumothorax
  c. Thrombophlebitis
  d. Excessive bleeding
  e. Extravasation

Question 2

A registered nurse (RN) delegates client care to an experienced licensed practical nurse (LPN). Which standards should guide the RN when delegating aspects of IV therapy to the LPN? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. State Nurse Practice Act
  b. The facility's Policies and Procedures manual
  c. The LPN's level of education and experience
  d. The Joint Commission's goals and criterion
  e. Client needs and prescribed orders

[emsimon14]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, C
Although the complication rate with PICCs is fairly low, the most common complications are phlebitis, thrombophlebitis, and catheter-related bloodstream infection. Pneumothorax, excessive bleeding, and extravasation are not common complications.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, B
The state Nurse Practice Act will have the information the RN needs, and in some states, LPNs are able to perform specific aspects of IV therapy. However, in a client care situation, it may be difficult and time-consuming to find it and read what LPNs are permitted to do, so another good solution would be for the nurse to check facility policy and follow it.