CRNI CRNI Peripheral Vascular Access and IV Site Management 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which catheter gauge is most appropriate for administering a blood transfusion in an adult patient?
- 18–20 gauge (Correct answer)
- 22–24 gauge
- 14–16 gauge
- 26 gauge
Correct answer: 18–20 gauge
An 18–20 gauge catheter allows adequate blood flow without causing hemolysis.
Question 2: According to INS standards, how often should peripheral IV sites be assessed for complications?
- Every 4 hours and with each infusion (Correct answer)
- Every 12 hours
- Once per shift
- Every 8 hours
Correct answer: Every 4 hours and with each infusion
INS requires peripheral IV site assessment every 4 hours and with each infusion to detect early complications.
Question 3: Which vein is the preferred site for peripheral IV insertion in adults?
- Forearm veins such as the cephalic or basilic (Correct answer)
- Antecubital fossa
- Dorsal hand veins
- Foot veins
Correct answer: Forearm veins such as the cephalic or basilic
Forearm veins like the cephalic and basilic are preferred because they are stable and away from joints.
Question 4: Per current INS guidelines, when should a peripheral IV catheter be replaced?
- Based on clinical indication, not on a routine schedule (Correct answer)
- Every 72 hours
- Every 48 hours
- Every 96 hours
Correct answer: Based on clinical indication, not on a routine schedule
INS now recommends replacing peripheral IVs based on clinical indication rather than routine timed replacement.
Question 5: Which site should be AVOIDED for peripheral IV insertion in a patient who had a right-sided mastectomy?
- Right arm (Correct answer)
- Left arm
- Left hand
- Right foot
Correct answer: Right arm
The right arm must be avoided after a right-sided mastectomy because impaired lymphatic drainage increases the risk of lymphedema and infection.
Question 6: How should a tourniquet be positioned before peripheral IV catheter insertion?
- 4–6 inches above the intended insertion site (Correct answer)
- 1 inch above the insertion site
- 8–10 inches above the insertion site
- It is not needed for routine peripheral IV insertion
Correct answer: 4–6 inches above the intended insertion site
Placing the tourniquet 4–6 inches above the insertion site adequately dilates the vein while leaving room to work.
CRNI CRNI Peripheral Vascular Access and IV Site Management 1
Which catheter gauge is most appropriate for administering a blood transfusion in an adult patient?