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The nurse is unable to flush a central venous access device and suspects occlusion. The best nursing intervention would be to

a. apply warm moist compresses to the insertion site.
b. attempt to force 10 mL of normal saline into the device.
c. place the patient on the left side with head-down position.
d. instruct the patient to change positions, raise arm and cough.

1 Answer

1 vote

Final answer:

The best nursing intervention for a suspected occlusion in a central venous access device is to instruct the patient to change positions, raise their arm, and cough. Attempting to force saline or applying warm compresses might not be effective and could cause harm.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a nurse suspects an occlusion in a central venous access device, the best nursing intervention would not be to attempt to force saline into the device, as this could cause harm. In the case where the nurse is unable to flush a central venous access device, one recommended action is to instruct the patient to change positions, presuming there is no other contraindication for mobilizing the patient. The patient could be asked to raise their arm and cough while the nurse attempts to flush the device. This might help to dislodge a possible clot or alleviate a positional occlusion. If these measures do not work, the nurse should follow the facility's protocols which may include the use of specific drugs that dissolve clots or a procedure to replace or remove the catheter, as well as consult with a healthcare provider for further assessment.

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