Author Question: A nurse cares for a client who is prescribed an intravenous prostacyclin agent. Which actions should ... (Read 76 times)

erika · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A nurse cares for a client who is prescribed an intravenous prostacyclin agent. Which actions should the nurse take to ensure the client's safety while on this medication? (Select all that apply.)

a. Keep an intravenous line dedicated strictly to the infusion.
b. Teach the client that this medication increases pulmonary pressures.
c. Ensure that there is always a backup drug cassette available.
d. Start a large-bore peripheral intravenous line.
e. Use strict aseptic technique when using the drug delivery system.

Question 2

A nurse plans care for a client who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and thick, tenacious secretions. Which interventions should the nurse include in this client's plan of care? (Select all that apply.)

a. Ask the client to drink 2 liters of fluids daily.
b. Add humidity to the prescribed oxygen.
c. Suction the client every 2 to 3 hours.
d. Use a vibrating positive expiratory pressure device.
e. Encourage diaphragmatic breathing.

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, C, E
Intravenous prostacyclin agents should be administered in a central venous catheter with a dedicated intravenous line for this medication. Death has been reported when the drug delivery system is interrupted; therefore, a backup drug cassette should also be available. The nurse should use strict aseptic technique when using the drug delivery system. The nurse should teach the client that this medication decreases pulmonary pressures and increases lung blood flow.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, B, D
Interventions to decrease thick tenacious secretions include maintaining adequate hydration and providing humidified oxygen. These actions will help to thin secretions, making them easier to remove by coughing. The use of a vibrating positive expiratory pressure device can also help clients remove thick secretions. Although suctioning may assist with the removal of secretions, frequent suctioning can cause airway trauma and does not support the client's ability to successfully remove secretions through normal coughing. Diaphragmatic breathing is not used to improve the removal of thick secretions.