Answer:
When administering a calcium infusion to a client, the nurse should prioritize ongoing assessment for signs and symptoms of potential complications related to the infusion. Some important signs and symptoms to monitor for include:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness.
Signs of hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood), which may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, excessive thirst, frequent urination, muscle weakness, confusion, fatigue, and arrhythmias.
Signs of extravasation (leakage of infused fluid into surrounding tissues), such as pain, swelling, or redness at the infusion site.
Signs of hypotension (low blood pressure) or bradycardia (slow heart rate), which can occur as a result of the calcium infusion.
Signs of infection at the infusion site, such as redness, warmth, swelling, or pus.
Monitoring vital signs regularly, particularly blood pressure and heart rate, is also essential during the infusion to detect any abnormalities promptly. Additionally, the nurse should assess the client's renal function and electrolyte levels before and during the infusion, as calcium metabolism is closely linked to renal function. Any concerning findings should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
Explanation:
