Author Question: A nurse flushing a capped, peripheral venous access device finds that the IV does not flush easily. ... (Read 114 times)

pepyto · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A nurse flushing a capped, peripheral venous access device finds that the IV does not flush easily. What is the appropriate intervention in this situation?

A) If infiltration or phlebitis is present, apply a sterile dressing to the site.
B) Aspirate and attempt to flush the line again.
C) If resistance remains after aspirating and flushing, forcefully flush the line.
D) If catheter has pulled out a short distance, push back in and flush line again.

Question 2

A nursing responsibility in managing IV therapy is to monitor the fluid infusions and to replace the fluid containers as needed. Which of the following is an accurate guideline for IV management that the nurse should consider?

A) The nurse should use new tubing when attaching additional IV solutions.
B) As one bag is infusing, the nurse should prepare the next bag so it is ready for a change when less than 10 mL of fluid remains in the original container.
C) It is the responsibility of the nurse to provide ongoing verification of the IV solution and the infusion rate with the physician's order.
D) Generally, the nurse should change the administration sets of simple IV solutions every 24 hours.

softEldritch · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Ans: B
If the IV does not flush easily, assess the insertion site. Infiltration and/or phlebitis may be present. If present, remove and restart in another location. In addition, the catheter may be blocked or clotted due to a kinked catheter at the insertion site. Aspirate and attempt to flush again. If resistance remains, do not force. Forceful flushing can dislodge a clot at the end of the catheter. Remove and restart in another location. If assessment reveals the catheter has pulled out a short distance, do not reinsert it; it is no longer sterile. Remove and restart in another location.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: C
The nurse's ongoing verification of the IV solution and the infusion rate with the physician's order is essential. If more than one IV solution or medication is ordered, the nurse should make sure the additional IV solution can be attached to the existing tubing. As one bag is infusing, the nurse should prepare the next bag so it is ready for a change when less than 50 mL of fluid remains in the original container. Every 72 hours is recommended for changing the administration sets of simple IV solutions.