💊 NCLEX-RN Exam Prep

An infusion pump for a patient's IV fluids begins to alarm, indicating an 'occlusion.' What is the nurse's initial action?

A Silence the alarm and increase the infusion rate.
B Check the IV tubing for kinks or clamped areas, and assess the insertion site.
C Discontinue the IV and restart it in a new location.
D Call the biomedical department to report a faulty pump.

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

The most common cause of an occlusion alarm is a mechanical issue like a kinked tube, clamped tubing, or an infiltrated IV site. The nurse should first troubleshoot these common problems before assuming equipment malfunction or requiring a restart.

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