The nurse is caring for a patient with a left subclavian central venous catheter (CVC) and a left radial arterial line. Which assessment finding by the nurse requires immediate action?
Numbness and tingling to the left hand.
Slight bloody drainage at the subclavian insertion site.
Dressing is beginning to lift around the insertion site.
Slight redness at the subclavian insertion site.
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Numbness and tingling in the left hand could indicate compromised blood flow or nerve damage, potentially due to the arterial line, requiring immediate assessment and intervention.
B. Slight bloody drainage is a common finding and typically does not require immediate action.
C. A dressing beginning to lift should be addressed to maintain a sterile environment but is not an emergency.
D. Slight redness at the insertion site may indicate mild irritation or early signs of infection, but it does not require immediate intervention compared to the potential vascular or nerve compromise suggested by numbness and tingling.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Critical care certification validates a nurse's specialized knowledge and skills in critical care, demonstrating competence in this field to both employers and patients.
B. While certification enhances professional credibility, it does not guarantee the absence of mistakes.
C. Preparing for graduate school is not the primary purpose of certification.
D. Certification may contribute to a facility's pursuit of Magnet status, but its primary purpose is to validate nursing expertise.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Referring the patient to the physician without addressing the concern may make the patient feel dismissed.
B. While lifestyle changes are important, this response does not address the patient’s emotional concern directly.
C. Encouraging the patient to express their fears allows the nurse to provide emotional support and address any misconceptions or anxieties, which is crucial for holistic care.
D. This response could be seen as dismissive and may not address the patient’s underlying concerns or fears.