when selecting a site on the hand or arm for insertion of an iv catheter the nurse should

ATI RN

Fluid and Electrolytes ATI

1. When selecting a site on the hand or arm for insertion of an IV catheter, the nurse should:

A. Choose a proximal site.
B. Choose a distal site.
C. Have the patient hold their arm in a dependent position.
D. Leave the tourniquet on for no longer than 2 minutes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When selecting a site for insertion of an IV catheter, the nurse should choose a distal site, not a proximal site. Opting for a distal site ensures that upper veins remain available for future cannulations. Instructing the patient to hold their arm in a dependent position can enhance blood flow, aiding in the procedure. It is crucial never to leave a tourniquet on for more than 2 minutes as prolonged restriction can lead to complications. Choice A is incorrect because a proximal site is not preferred for IV insertion. Choice C is incorrect as having the patient hold their arm over their head is not necessary and may impede proper blood flow. Choice D is incorrect as leaving the tourniquet on for at least 5 minutes is excessive and can be harmful.

2. What can cause dehydration?

A. Prolonged vomiting.
B. Prolonged diarrhea.
C. Too little fluid intake.
D. Prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, and too little fluid intake.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Dehydration can result from significant fluid loss due to vomiting, diarrhea, or inadequate fluid intake. Prolonged vomiting and diarrhea lead to excessive fluid loss from the body, contributing to dehydration. Similarly, not consuming enough fluids can also result in dehydration. Choice A and B are too specific as they only mention one cause each, while choice C is also correct but does not encompass all the potential causes of dehydration as mentioned in choice D.

3. . A 73-year-old man comes into the emergency department (ED) by ambulance after slipping on a small carpet in his home. The patient fell on his hip with a resultant fracture. He is alert and oriented; his pupils are equal and reactive to light and accommodation. His heart rate is elevated, he is anxious and thirsty, a Foley catheter is placed, and 40 mL of urine is present. What is the nurses most likely explanation for the low urine output?

A. The man urinated prior to his arrival to the ED and will probably not need to have the Foley catheter kept in place.
B. The man likely has a traumatic brain injury, lacks antidiuretic hormone (ADH), and needs vasopressin.
C. The man is experiencing symptoms of heart failure and is releasing atrial natriuretic peptide that results in decreased urine output.
D. The man is having a sympathetic reaction, which has stimulated the reninangiotensinaldosterone system that results in diminished urine output.

Correct answer: D

Rationale:

4. A nurse assesses a client who is admitted with an acid-base imbalance. The clients arterial blood gas values are pH 7.32, PaO2 85 mm Hg, PaCO2 34 mm Hg, and HCO3 16 mEq/L. What action should the nurse take next?

A. Assess clients rate, rhythm, and depth of respiration.
B. Measure the clients pulse and blood pressure.
C. Document the findings and continue to monitor.
D. Notify the physician as soon as possible.

Correct answer: A

Rationale:

5. A nurse sees a variety of patients in the community health clinic. Which of the following patients would be at the greatest risk of dehydration?

A. An 18-year-old basketball player with a stress fracture of the right foot
B. An infant with diarrhea
C. A 45-year-old with stomach flu
D. An elderly patient living alone

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Infants are particularly vulnerable to dehydration due to diarrhea because they have a higher fluid turnover and less reserve. Option A, the 18-year-old basketball player with a stress fracture, is less likely to be at the greatest risk of dehydration compared to an infant with diarrhea. Option C, the 45-year-old with stomach flu, may experience dehydration but is not at the same level of risk as an infant with diarrhea. Option D, the elderly patient living alone, could be at risk of dehydration, but infants with diarrhea are at the greatest risk due to their unique physiological characteristics.