Question

You have a 76-year-old patient who is on a norepinephrine gtt. You notice the patient is complaining of severe pain and that the area around her IV is becoming translucent, cool to touch, and discolored. What stage is this and what medication should you administer to prevent extravasation?

A. Stage 1, phentolamine
B. Stage 4, hyaluronidase
C. Stage 4, phentolamine
D. Stage 3, dexrazoxane

Answer 1

The stage is stage 4 extravasation and the recommended medication to prevent it is phentolamine.

Step-by-step explanation:

The stage described in the question is stage 4 extravasation, which is characterized by severe pain, translucence, coolness, and discoloration around the IV site. The recommended medication to prevent extravasation in this case is phentolamine.

Phentolamine is an alpha-adrenergic antagonist that can be used to counteract the vasoconstrictive effects of norepinephrine and prevent tissue damage caused by extravasation. It works by reducing the constriction of blood vessels, improving blood flow and preventing further damage to the affected area.

Administering phentolamine promptly can help minimize tissue damage and reduce the risk of long-term complications. It is important to prioritize patient safety and prevent further harm by closely monitoring the patient's condition and promptly notifying the healthcare provider.