Question

If a pump sounds an alarm, the technologist should check all of the following EXCEPT

A) The data screen for message alerts
B) Whether the medication is appropriate for this patient
C) Air in the tubing
D) Whether a roll valve or clamp on the IV tubing has not been opened
E) Whether the tubing is properly installed

Answer 1

When a pump alarm sounds, the technologist should look for technical issues with the machine or the tubing, not the appropriateness of the medication for the patient.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a pump sounds an alarm, the technologist should check all of the following EXCEPT whether the medication is appropriate for this patient. While the appropriateness of medication is crucial in patient care, it is not usually related to a pump alarm. In the event of an alarm, it is more likely that there are technical or mechanical issues such as air in the tubing, closed roll valves or clamps, or issues with the installation of the tubing.

A nurse typically reviews items such as procedure names and whether the equipment is functioning correctly before starting a procedure, which may include using devices like sphygmomanometers to measure blood pressure. However, in the scenario of a pump alerting with an alarm, immediate checks involve the machine and supply components to ensure smooth delivery of the medication.