IV Therapy & Fluid Management Flashcards

A patient's IV site shows redness, warmth, and a palpable cord along the vein. Which complication is most likely occurring?

Answer: Phlebitis

Phlebitis presents with redness, warmth, swelling, and a palpable cord along the vein due to inflammation of the vessel wall.

Which IV fluid is considered isotonic and is most commonly used for fluid resuscitation?

Answer: 0.9% NaCl (Normal Saline)

0.9% NaCl (Normal Saline) is isotonic and remains in the vascular space, making it the standard choice for fluid resuscitation.

When calculating IV flow rate using a drop factor of 15 gtt/mL for 1000 mL over 8 hours, what is the correct rate in gtt/min?

Answer: 31 gtt/min

1000 mL ÷ 8 hr = 125 mL/hr; 125 × 15 ÷ 60 = 31.25, rounded to 31 gtt/min.

A patient receiving a blood transfusion develops chills, fever, and back pain within 15 minutes of initiation. What is the priority nursing action?

Answer: Stop the transfusion immediately

These signs indicate a hemolytic transfusion reaction; the nurse must stop the transfusion immediately to prevent further harm.

Which electrolyte imbalance is most associated with skeletal muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and a serum level below 3.5 mEq/L?

Answer: Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia (serum potassium < 3.5 mEq/L) causes muscle weakness, fatigue, and potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias.

An LVN notes that IV fluid is infusing into the subcutaneous tissue rather than the vein. Which term describes this complication?

Answer: Infiltration

Infiltration is the inadvertent administration of non-vesicant IV fluid into surrounding tissue; extravasation refers specifically to vesicant solutions.

Which IV access site is preferred for rapid large-volume fluid resuscitation in an adult?

Answer: Antecubital vein with 16-gauge catheter

A large-bore catheter (16-gauge or larger) in the antecubital vein allows rapid high-volume fluid delivery needed in emergencies.