Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who requires a medication that is packaged in a single-dose glass ampule. Which of the following techniques should the nurse use when opening the glass ampule?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: This answer is correct because tapping the bottom of the ampoule reduces the risk of glass shards falling into the medication. Placing a gauze pad around the neck provides a barrier to prevent injury. Breaking off the bottom with a forward motion away from the body ensures safety by directing any glass fragments away from the nurse.
Incorrect Choices:
A: Breaking off the neck with a single snap to the right side may cause glass shards to scatter, posing a risk of injury and contamination.
C: Breaking off the neck of the ampule in a downward motion may lead to glass shards falling into the medication or onto the nurse's hands.
D: Breaking off the top of the ampule by bending it toward the body can result in glass shards falling towards the nurse, increasing the risk of injury and contamination.
Rationale: This answer is correct because tapping the bottom of the ampoule reduces the risk of glass shards falling into the medication. Placing a gauze pad around the neck provides a barrier to prevent injury. Breaking off the bottom with a forward motion away from the body ensures safety by directing any glass fragments away from the nurse.
Incorrect Choices:
A: Breaking off the neck with a single snap to the right side may cause glass shards to scatter, posing a risk of injury and contamination.
C: Breaking off the neck of the ampule in a downward motion may lead to glass shards falling into the medication or onto the nurse's hands.
D: Breaking off the top of the ampule by bending it toward the body can result in glass shards falling towards the nurse, increasing the risk of injury and contamination.