A patient with hemophilia is hospitalized for infusion of factor VIII replacement through a venous port. While giving the drug, the nurse notes that the patient's temperature is 101.5? F. The nurse will contact the provider to report which possibility?

Question

a. Anaphylactic reaction
b. Contamination of factor replacement
c. Port infection
d. Thrombolytic event

Answer 1

ANS: C
Central venous access devices are used to facilitate frequent IV administration of factor replacement but pose the risks of infection and thrombosis. This patient has a fever, which is a symptom of infection. Anaphylactic reactions to factor replacement can occur but are characterized by wheezing and shortness of breath, along with swelling in the face. Viral contamination of factor replacement is rare with factor VIII. Thrombolytic events would have symptoms associated with clot formation in certain organs and are not associated with fever.