Question

A nurse is preparing to insert an intravenous line and begin administering intravenous fluids. The client has visitors in the room. What should the nurse do?

a) Ask the visitors to leave until the procedure is complete
b) Close the room curtains for privacy during the procedure
c) Proceed with the procedure while engaging in conversation with visitors
d) Postpone the procedure until the visitors leave

Answer 1

The nurse should close the curtains for privacy during the insertion of an intravenous line when visitors are present, which maintains privacy and allows the procedure to continue. Asking visitors to leave may be necessary in some cases to ensure a sterile environment or the patient's medical condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

When preparing to insert an intravenous line with visitors present, the nurse should prioritize patient privacy and safety. The most appropriate step would be to b) Close the room curtains for privacy during the procedure. This action ensures patient privacy while still allowing the procedure to proceed without delay. It is also aligned with standard medical practices, which include confirming the patient's identity, procedure details, and preparing the necessary equipment and supplies, such as ensuring that the needle and sponge counts are complete before skin incision.

In some situations, depending on the patient's condition and the preferences of the patient, it may be necessary to a) Ask the visitors to leave until the procedure is complete. This would be appropriate if the procedure requires a sterile environment or if the patient's medical condition could be compromised by the presence of visitors.