The nurse is administering an intermittent infusion of an antibiotic to a client. What is an appropriate nursing action?

• A. Stop the infusion immediately
• B. Change the antibiotic
• C. Increase the rate
• D. Reposition the client's arm

Answer: (D)

The action being tested is how to support IV therapy by assessing and improving the infusion site and comfort without jumping to drastic changes. Repositioning the arm helps relieve external pressure on the vein, can improve venous flow, and allows you to recheck the catheter’s position and the site for any signs of irritation. It’s a gentle, patient-centered step that can prevent or reduce complications like discomfort or vein irritation and helps ensure the intermittent antibiotic infusion continues smoothly. If signs of infiltration, phlebitis, or poor flow persist after repositioning, then more substantial actions (such as stopping the infusion or restarting at another site) would be warranted.