Page 2399 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

administration reduces the amount of medication
needed to control pain; therefore, the client
experiences fewer side effects.
2. Assess client’s vital signs, level of consciousness, and
motor and sensory function of the lower extremities.
3. Monitor insertion site for signs of infection and be sure
that the catheter is secured to the client’s skin and that
all connections are taped to prevent disconnection.
4. Check PHCP’s prescription regarding solution and
medication administration.
5. For continuous infusion, monitor the electronic
infusion device for proper rate of flow.
6. For bolus dose administration, follow the procedure
for administering bolus doses through the catheter
and follow agency procedure.

7. Aspiration is done before injecting medication;

if more than 1 mL of clear fluid or blood returns, the
medication is not injected and the PHCP or
anesthesiologist is notified immediately (catheter may
have migrated into the subarachnoid space or a blood
vessel).

Contraindications to an epidural catheter and administration of

epidural analgesia include skeletal and spinal abnormalities, bleeding
disorders, use of anticoagulants, history of multiple abscesses, and
sepsis.
II. Administration of Parenteral Nutrition
A. Parenteral Nutrition (PN)
1. Description
a. Parenteral nutrition supplies nutrients
via the veins.
b. PN consists of both partial parenteral
nutrition (PPN) and total parenteral
nutrition (TPN). The indication of the
type used depends on the client’s
nutritional needs.
c. PN supplies carbohydrates in the form
of dextrose, fats in an emulsified form,
proteins in the form of amino acids,
vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and
water.

d. PN prevents subcutaneous fat

and muscle protein from being
catabolized by the body for energy.

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