Question

The nurse is preparing to care for a client with esophageal varices who needs a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube inserted because other treatments were unsuccessful. The nurse gathers supplies, knowing that which item must be kept at the bedside at all times?

a) Oxygen mask
b) Suction equipment
c) Intravenous (IV) pole
d) Emergency tracheostomy kit

Answer 1

In preparing to care for a patient with esophageal varices needing a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube, the nurse must keep an IV pole at the bedside at all times. An IV pole is critical for the immediate administration of necessary treatments and dealing with potential complications such as hypovolemic shock.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is preparing to care for a client with esophageal varices who requires a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube insertion. It is critical for the nurse to keep an intravenous (IV) pole at the bedside at all times when caring for a patient like this. An IV pole is essential as it allows for immediate administration of fluids, blood products, and medications, which may be crucial in managing the patient's condition, especially if emergency situations arise such as bleeding or the need for volume replacement.

Venous catheters, like the Sengstaken-Blakemore tube, are lifesaving, but also carry a risk of complications, including bloodstream infections. Therefore, immediate access to an IV pole allows for prompt response to any sudden changes in the patient's condition, such as hypovolemic shock, which is a type of circulatory shock caused by excessive loss of blood volume.