ATI RN
ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving an epidural infusion for pain management. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention from the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Report of headache and stiff neck. This finding indicates a potential complication of epidural anesthesia called a post-dural puncture headache, which can lead to serious consequences like meningitis or subdural hematoma. The nurse should act immediately by notifying the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Redness at the catheter insertion site (A) may indicate local inflammation but doesn't require immediate intervention. Temperature elevation (C) could be a sign of infection but isn't as urgent as a headache and stiff neck. Pain rating of 8 (D) is important but doesn't indicate an immediate threat to the client's health like a post-dural puncture headache.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is assessing clients who have intravenous therapy prescribed. Which assessment finding for a client with a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) requires immediate attention?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because upper extremity swelling could indicate a potential complication such as deep vein thrombosis, which is a serious condition requiring immediate attention to prevent further complications. Swelling can impede blood flow and lead to clot formation. A: The initial site dressing being 3 days old is concerning for infection but not an immediate threat. B: The PICC being inserted 4 weeks ago may increase infection risk but does not require immediate attention. C: A missing securement device may increase the risk of dislodgement but is not an immediate threat compared to potential vascular compromise indicated by upper extremity swelling.
Question 3 of 5
.A nurse assesses a clients peripheral IV site, and notices edema and tenderness above the site. Which action should the nurse take next?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct action is to stop the infusion of intravenous fluids. Edema and tenderness above the IV site suggest infiltration, where fluid leaks into surrounding tissues. Stopping the infusion prevents further damage and helps prevent complications. Applying cold compresses (A) may not address the underlying issue. Elevating the extremity (B) is helpful for other conditions like swelling due to dependent edema, not infiltration. Flushing the catheter (C) can exacerbate the issue by pushing more fluid into the tissue.
Question 4 of 5
While assessing a clients peripheral IV site, the nurse observes a streak of red along the vein path and palpates a 4-cm venous cord. How should the nurse document this finding?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Grade 3 phlebitis at IV site. This finding indicates inflammation of the vein due to irritants from the IV catheter, supported by red streak and palpable cord. Grade 3 phlebitis involves pain, redness, swelling, and palpable venous cord. Infection (B) typically presents with signs like pus, warmth, and fever. Thrombosis (C) involves a blood clot, not a palpable cord. Infiltration (D) is leakage of IV fluid into surrounding tissues, not related to palpable cord and red streak.
Question 5 of 5
1.A nurse prepares to insert a peripheral venous catheter in an older adult client. Which action should the nurse take to protect the clients skin during this procedure?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Place a washcloth between the skin and tourniquet. This step helps protect the client's skin by providing a barrier between the tourniquet and the skin, reducing the risk of skin irritation or damage. Lowering the extremity below the heart (A) can increase venous pressure and make it harder to insert the catheter. Warm compresses (B) can dilate blood vessels and increase the risk of bruising. Tapping the skin lightly (C) can irritate the skin and is unnecessary for skin protection.