A nurse is drawing a blood sample from a client's central line and the client suddenly becomes dyspneic and complains of chest pain. The priority action by the nurse is to
A) obtain blood pressure readings in both arms.
B) notify the physician immediately.
C) put the client in a left lateral Trendelenburg position.
D) terminate the procedure and clamp the central line.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This client is probably experiencing a venous air embolism from the open central line. The priority action is to stop the procedure and clamp the line. Then the nurse should position the client in Trendelenburg and rotate the client to the left side to trap the air in the apex of the heart. The nurse can attempt to aspirate the air from the distal port of the catheter. Someone else should notify the physician while the nurse remains with the client.

A Nurse Is Drawing a Blood Sample from a Client's