While receiving normal saline infusions to treat a GI bleed, the nurse notes that the patient’s lower legs have become edematous and auscultates crackles in the

While receiving normal saline infusions to treat a GI bleed, the nurse notes that the patient’s lower legs have become edematous and auscultates crackles in the lungs. What should the nurse do first?

1. Stop the saline infusion immediately
2. Notify Physician
3. Elevate the patient’s legs
4. Continue the infusion, since these are normal findings

Ans: 1. Stop the saline infusion immediately
CORRECT – the patient has a fluid volume overload as a result of overly rapid fluid replacement. The nurse should stop the infusion and notify the physician.