PNR 202/PNR202 Exam 1 V1 | Intravenous
Therapy Q&A with Rationale | Fortis College
1. A nurse is preparing to administer an isotonic intravenous solution. Which of the following
fluids should the nurse select?
A. 0.9% Sodium Chloride
B. 0.45% Sodium Chloride
C. 10% Dextrose in Water
D. 3% Sodium Chloride
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: 0.9% Sodium Chloride, also known as Normal Saline, is considered an
isotonic solution because it has the same osmolarity as serum. Isotonic fluids remain in the
intravascular compartment without causing significant fluid shifts between the
intracellular and extracellular spaces. This makes it an ideal choice for volume expansion in
patients with dehydration or hypotension.
2. During an assessment of a patient’s IV site, the nurse notes coolness of the skin, swelling,
and a slowed infusion rate. Which complication is most likely occurring?
A. Phlebitis
B. Infiltration
C. Extravasation
,D. Thrombosis
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Infiltration occurs when non-vesicant IV fluid leaks into the surrounding
subcutaneous tissue rather than staying within the vein. The primary symptoms include
coolness to the touch, edema around the site, and discomfort. The nurse should
immediately stop the infusion, remove the catheter, and elevate the extremity to facilitate
fluid reabsorption.
3. Which electrolyte is the primary intracellular cation and must never be administered by IV
push?
A. Sodium
B. Magnesium
C. Calcium
D. Potassium
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Potassium is the major cation of the intracellular fluid and is critical for
cardiac and muscular function. Administering potassium via IV push can cause immediate
cardiac arrest and is a lethal practice. It must always be diluted and administered via a
controlled infusion pump with continuous monitoring.
, 4. A nurse identifies redness, warmth, and a palpable cord along the vein of an IV site. How
should the nurse document this finding?
A. Infiltration Grade 2
B. Hematoma
C. Phlebitis Grade 3
D. Septicemia
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Phlebitis is the inflammation of the inner lining of a vein, often marked by
pain, heat, and redness. A palpable venous cord is a specific sign associated with higher
grades of phlebitis. The nurse must discontinue the IV and apply warm compresses to
improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
5. When preparing to start a peripheral IV, which site should the nurse prioritize to preserve
future venous access?
A. The most distal site on the non-dominant arm
B. The most proximal site on the dominant arm
C. The antecubital fossa
D. A vein in the lower extremity
Correct Answer: A
Therapy Q&A with Rationale | Fortis College
1. A nurse is preparing to administer an isotonic intravenous solution. Which of the following
fluids should the nurse select?
A. 0.9% Sodium Chloride
B. 0.45% Sodium Chloride
C. 10% Dextrose in Water
D. 3% Sodium Chloride
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: 0.9% Sodium Chloride, also known as Normal Saline, is considered an
isotonic solution because it has the same osmolarity as serum. Isotonic fluids remain in the
intravascular compartment without causing significant fluid shifts between the
intracellular and extracellular spaces. This makes it an ideal choice for volume expansion in
patients with dehydration or hypotension.
2. During an assessment of a patient’s IV site, the nurse notes coolness of the skin, swelling,
and a slowed infusion rate. Which complication is most likely occurring?
A. Phlebitis
B. Infiltration
C. Extravasation
,D. Thrombosis
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Infiltration occurs when non-vesicant IV fluid leaks into the surrounding
subcutaneous tissue rather than staying within the vein. The primary symptoms include
coolness to the touch, edema around the site, and discomfort. The nurse should
immediately stop the infusion, remove the catheter, and elevate the extremity to facilitate
fluid reabsorption.
3. Which electrolyte is the primary intracellular cation and must never be administered by IV
push?
A. Sodium
B. Magnesium
C. Calcium
D. Potassium
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Potassium is the major cation of the intracellular fluid and is critical for
cardiac and muscular function. Administering potassium via IV push can cause immediate
cardiac arrest and is a lethal practice. It must always be diluted and administered via a
controlled infusion pump with continuous monitoring.
, 4. A nurse identifies redness, warmth, and a palpable cord along the vein of an IV site. How
should the nurse document this finding?
A. Infiltration Grade 2
B. Hematoma
C. Phlebitis Grade 3
D. Septicemia
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Phlebitis is the inflammation of the inner lining of a vein, often marked by
pain, heat, and redness. A palpable venous cord is a specific sign associated with higher
grades of phlebitis. The nurse must discontinue the IV and apply warm compresses to
improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
5. When preparing to start a peripheral IV, which site should the nurse prioritize to preserve
future venous access?
A. The most distal site on the non-dominant arm
B. The most proximal site on the dominant arm
C. The antecubital fossa
D. A vein in the lower extremity
Correct Answer: A
