IV Patient Assessment & Monitoring 2

Question 1

A patient receiving IV fluids develops sudden onset of chills, fever of 103°F, and hypotension. Which condition should you suspect first?

Accepted Answer

Septicemia from contaminated IV solution

Answer

Sudden fever, chills, and hypotension during IV therapy are classic signs of septicemia, often caused by contaminated IV solution or tubing.

Question 2

When assessing an IV site, you note the skin is taut, cool, and pale with no blood return. The most likely cause is:

Accepted Answer

Infiltration

Answer

Taut, cool, pale skin with absent blood return indicates infiltration — IV fluid leaking into surrounding tissue.

Question 3

How often should IV insertion sites be assessed in a standard acute care setting?

Accepted Answer

Every 1-2 hours

Answer

INS standards recommend IV site assessment every 1-2 hours to detect complications such as infiltration or phlebitis early.

Question 4

A patient's urine output drops below 30 mL/hour during IV fluid therapy. This finding primarily suggests:

Accepted Answer

Renal insufficiency or inadequate fluid replacement

Answer

Urine output below 30 mL/hour indicates inadequate perfusion, possible hypovolemia, or renal compromise requiring immediate evaluation.

Question 5

Which assessment finding is most consistent with speed shock during rapid IV infusion?

Accepted Answer

Flushing, headache, and loss of consciousness

Answer

Speed shock presents with flushing, tight chest, headache, and potential loss of consciousness due to too-rapid introduction of medication or fluid.

(IV) Intravenous Therapy Certified Practice Test