A patient who is receiving a final dose of intravenous (IV) ...

[jeatrice]

A patient who is receiving a final dose of intravenous (IV) cephalosporin begins to complain of pain and irritation at the infusion site. The nurse observes signs of redness at the IV insertion site and along the vein. What is the nurse's priority action?
 
  a. Apply warm packs to the arm, and infuse the medication at a slower rate.
  b. Continue the infusion while elevating the arm.
  c. Select an alternate intravenous site and administer the infusion more slowly.
  d. Request central venous access.

Question 2

A nurse is discussing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with a group of nursing students. Which statement by a student correctly identifies the basis for MRSA resistance?
 
  a. MRSA bacteria have developed PBPs with a low affinity for penicillins.
  b. MRSA bacteria produce penicillinases that render penicillin ineffective.
  c. MRSA occurs because of host resistance to penicillins.
  d. MRSA strains replicate faster than other Staphylococcus aureus strains.

[fur]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
These signs indicate thrombophlebitis. The nurse should select an alternative IV site and administer the infusion more slowly. The IV should not be continued in the same site, because necrosis may occur. A central line would be indicated only for long-term administration of antibiotics.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
MRSA strains have a unique mechanism of resistance, which is the production of PBPs with a low affinity for penicillins and all other beta-lactam antibiotics. MRSA resistance is not related to beta-lactamase production. MRSA resistance refers to bacterial and not host resistance. The resistance of MRSA strains is not related to speed of replication.

[jeatrice]

Excellent

[bulacsom]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it