The nurse is caring for a client receiving pain medication through an

The nurse is caring for a client receiving pain medication through an epidural catheter. What should the nurse include to ensure safety when caring for this client?

1. Secure all tubing connections with gauze.
2. Apply tape over all injection ports on the tubing.
3. Cleanse the insertion site with alcohol swabs once a day.
4. Label the tubing, infusion bag, and pump with the word “epidural.”
5. Post a sign above the client’s bed indicating that an epidural is being used.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 2, 4, 5

Rationale 1: Tubing connections should be secured with tape.

Rationale 2: Apply tape over all injection ports on the epidural line to avoid the injection of substances intended for IV administration into the epidural catheter.

Rationale 3: Do not use alcohol in any care of the catheter or insertion site because it can be neurotoxic.

Rationale 4: Label the tubing, the infusion bag, and the front of the pump with tape marked “epidural” to prevent confusion with similar-looking IV lines.

Rationale 5: Post a sign above the client’s bed indicating that an epidural is in place.