The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving isotonic intravenous (IV) fluids at an infusion rate of 125 mL/h. The nurse performs an assessment and notes a heart rate of 102 beats per minute, a blood pressure of 160/85 mm Hg, and crackles auscultated in both lungs. Which action will the nurse take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's vital signs and lung sounds indicate fluid overload, so the nurse should decrease the IV fluid rate to prevent further fluid accumulation and notify the provider for further evaluation and possible medication adjustments. Increasing the IV fluid rate or switching to a different type of IV solution would not be appropriate in this situation.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Receiving