Managing Infusion Complications Flashcards
6 cards from real CRNI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Managing Infusion Complications flashcards as text
A patient with a central venous catheter suddenly develops unilateral facial and arm swelling. What complication should the nurse suspect?
Answer: Superior vena cava syndrome from catheter-related thrombosis
Unilateral facial and arm swelling suggests catheter-related deep vein thrombosis with obstruction of venous return, potentially progressing to SVC syndrome.
What is the FIRST action when infiltration of a non-vesicant solution is suspected?
Answer: Stop the infusion and disconnect the IV tubing
The first priority is to stop the infusion to prevent further fluid accumulation in the surrounding tissue, then disconnect and assess the site.
Which sign differentiates mechanical phlebitis from chemical phlebitis?
Answer: Mechanical phlebitis typically occurs within 24-48 hours of insertion and relates to catheter size and movement
Mechanical phlebitis develops early (24-48 hours) from physical irritation of the vein by the catheter, while chemical phlebitis relates to the pH, osmolality, or composition of the infusate.
A patient with a PICC line reports inability to flush the catheter. After repositioning the arm, flushing is successful. What is the likely cause?
Answer: Positional occlusion from catheter tip against the vessel wall
Positional occlusion occurs when the catheter tip rests against the vessel wall, blocking flow in certain positions but resolving with repositioning.
What is the appropriate intervention for a suspected air embolism during central line tubing change?
Answer: Place the patient in left lateral Trendelenburg position and administer 100% oxygen
Left lateral Trendelenburg position traps air in the right atrium apex, preventing it from entering the pulmonary vasculature, while 100% oxygen helps absorb the air.
A patient receiving total parenteral nutrition through a CVC develops sudden fever, tachycardia, and hypotension. Blood glucose is 45 mg/dL. What complication should be suspected?
Answer: Catheter-related bloodstream infection with hypoglycemia from sepsis
Sudden fever, tachycardia, and hypotension during TPN administration suggest CRBSI, with hypoglycemia resulting from sepsis-induced glucose consumption and possible TPN interruption.