The nurse is teaching the client to self-administer a dose of low molecular weight heparin SUBQ. Which instruction should the nurse include?
Expel the air in the prefilled syringe prior to injection.
Rotate injections between the abdomen and gluteal areas.
Massage the injection site to increase absorption.
Inject in the abdominal area at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the umbilicus.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Expelling the air in the prefilled syringe prior to injection is not recommended for low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) administration. The air bubble in the prefilled syringe helps ensure the entire dose is delivered and prevents leakage of the medication. Removing the air bubble can lead to an incomplete dose and reduced efficacy of the medication.
Choice B rationale
Rotating injections between the abdomen and gluteal areas is not recommended for LMWH administration. The preferred site for LMWH injections is the abdominal area, specifically at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the umbilicus. This site provides better absorption and reduces the risk of complications such as hematoma formation.
Choice C rationale
Massaging the injection site to increase absorption is not recommended for LMWH administration. Massaging the site can cause bruising and hematoma formation, which can be painful and may affect the absorption of the medication. It is important to avoid massaging the injection site to minimize these risks.
Choice D rationale
Injecting in the abdominal area at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the umbilicus is the correct instruction for LMWH administration. This site provides optimal absorption and reduces the risk of complications. The abdominal area has a good blood supply, which helps in the effective absorption of the medication. Additionally, injecting at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the umbilicus helps avoid the umbilical area, which is more prone to bruising and discomfort.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Withdrawing the medication into a syringe and labeling it with the client’s name is not necessary and could lead to errors or contamination.
Choice B rationale
Asking another nurse to witness the medication being discarded ensures proper documentation, accountability, and compliance with regulations.
Choice C rationale
Placing the vial with the remainder of the medication into a locked drawer does not address the need for proper documentation and labeling of the remaining medication.
Choice D rationale
Throwing the vial into the trash in the presence of another nurse is not appropriate as it does not ensure proper documentation, accountability, or safe storage of the remaining medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This outcome statement focuses on the client’s ability to perform a specific task related to ostomy care. While it’s important for clients with a colostomy to learn how to change their ostomy bag, in the context of this scenario, where the client has developed hyperglycemia requiring insulin injections, the priority lies in managing their diabetes and adhering to the medication regimen. Therefore, while ostomy care is important, it may not be the most immediate concern.
Choice B rationale
This outcome statement indicates the client’s attempt to self-administer insulin but inability to perform the injection. While it’s important for clients to be able to self-administer insulin, the emphasis in this scenario should be on ensuring that the client adheres to the medication regimen, rather than focusing solely on their ability to self-administer insulin immediately after discharge. Therefore, while self-administration of insulin is relevant, it may not be the most immediate priority in the postoperative plan of care.
Choice C rationale
This outcome statement focuses on monitoring the client’s respiratory status by auscultating breath sounds at regular intervals. While respiratory assessment is important, especially postoperatively, it may not directly address the client’s primary health concern in this scenario, which is managing hyperglycemia and insulin administration.
Choice D rationale
This outcome statement directly addresses the client’s need to manage their hyperglycemia by adhering to the prescribed insulin regimen. Given that the client has developed hyperglycemia requiring insulin injections, ensuring medication adherence is crucial for controlling blood sugar levels and preventing complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes. This choice aligns with the client’s health needs and goals following the surgical procedure and the development of hyperglycemia.