how should a nurse administer a subcutaneous injection

ATI RN

ATI RN Comprehensive Exit Exam

1. How should a healthcare professional administer a subcutaneous injection?

A. Insert the needle at a 45-degree angle
B. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle
C. Use a Z-track method
D. Insert the needle at a 15-degree angle

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for administering subcutaneous injections is to insert the needle at a 45-degree angle. This angle ensures that the medication is delivered into the subcutaneous tissue, which is located just below the skin. Inserting the needle at a 90-degree angle is more appropriate for intramuscular injections, while using a Z-track method is specific to intramuscular injections to prevent leakage of medication into the subcutaneous tissue. Inserting the needle at a 15-degree angle would not reach the subcutaneous tissue effectively.

2. A nurse is planning discharge teaching about cord care for the parents of a newborn. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. The cord stump will fall off in 5 days.
B. Contact the provider if the cord stump turns black.
C. Clean the base of the cord with hydrogen peroxide daily.
D. Keep the cord stump dry until it falls off.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for cord care is to keep the cord stump dry until it falls off. This helps prevent infection and promotes healing. Choice A is incorrect because the timing of when the cord stump falls off can vary, usually between 1-3 weeks. Choice B is incorrect as a black cord stump can be a normal part of the healing process, so it is unnecessary to contact the provider for this reason. Choice C is incorrect because cleaning the cord with hydrogen peroxide daily is not recommended as it can delay healing and cause irritation.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who is at 28 weeks of gestation and has preeclampsia. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A. Blood pressure 120/80 mm Hg
B. Weight gain of 0.9 kg (2 lb) in 1 week
C. Urine output of 30 mL/hr
D. Respiratory rate 16/min

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A weight gain of 0.9 kg (2 lb) in 1 week is an indication of fluid retention, which is concerning in a client with preeclampsia. This can be a sign of worsening condition requiring immediate medical attention. High blood pressure (option A) is expected in preeclampsia, a urine output of 30 mL/hr (option C) is decreased but not as urgent as the weight gain in this scenario, and a respiratory rate of 16/min (option D) is within normal limits.

4. Which medication is commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism?

A. Methimazole
B. Levothyroxine
C. Propylthiouracil
D. Aspirin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Methimazole is the correct answer. It is commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine, on the other hand, is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism by providing synthetic thyroid hormone. Propylthiouracil is another medication used to treat hyperthyroidism by blocking the production of thyroid hormones. Aspirin is not used to treat hyperthyroidism, but rather for pain relief and reducing inflammation.

5. A healthcare provider is assessing a child who is being treated for bacterial pneumonia. The provider notes an increase in the child's glucose level. The provider should identify this finding as an adverse effect of which of the following medications?

A. Methylprednisolone.
B. Ondansetron.
C. Guaifenesin.
D. Amoxicillin.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Correct. Methylprednisolone, a corticosteroid, can lead to increased glucose levels as an adverse effect. Ondansetron is an antiemetic and does not typically cause elevated glucose levels. Guaifenesin is an expectorant and is not associated with raising glucose levels. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic and does not affect glucose levels.