CRNI Central Venous Access Devices Practice Test Flashcards
6 cards from real CRNI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CRNI Central Venous Access Devices Practice Test flashcards as text
What is the recommended minimum syringe size for flushing a central venous catheter to prevent catheter rupture?
Answer: 10 mL
A minimum 10 mL syringe should be used for flushing central venous catheters. Smaller syringes generate higher pressures per unit area (measured in psi), which can exceed the catheter's pressure rating and cause rupture or fracture. A 10 mL syringe generates approximately 8 psi, while a 1 mL syringe can generate over 300 psi.
Which imaging modality is the gold standard for confirming central venous catheter tip position?
Answer: Chest X-ray (posteroanterior)
A posteroanterior chest X-ray is the gold standard for confirming CVC tip position after insertion. It verifies the tip is at the cavoatrial junction or lower SVC and rules out complications such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, and catheter malposition. The X-ray should be obtained before using the catheter for infusion.
A patient with a Hickman catheter reports a cracked external segment of the catheter. What is the immediate nursing action?
Answer: Clamp the catheter between the patient and the crack using a padded clamp
The immediate priority is to clamp the catheter between the patient's body and the damaged segment to prevent air embolism and blood loss. A padded (non-toothed) clamp should be used to avoid further catheter damage. The provider should be notified for evaluation and possible catheter repair with a manufacturer-approved repair kit.
What is the primary indication for placing a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) rather than a short peripheral IV?
Answer: Infusion therapy expected to last more than 6 days or involving vesicant/irritant solutions
PICCs are indicated when infusion therapy is expected to last more than 6 days, when the solution is a vesicant or irritant (such as chemotherapy or hyperosmolar TPN), or when peripheral access is no longer obtainable. They provide central venous access with a lower insertion risk profile than direct central venous catheter placement.
Which position should a patient be placed in during central venous catheter insertion via the subclavian or internal jugular vein?
Answer: Trendelenburg position with a rolled towel between the scapulae
Trendelenburg position (head down 15-25 degrees) with a rolled towel between the scapulae is the standard position for subclavian and IJ central line insertion. Trendelenburg distends the target veins, making cannulation easier and reducing the risk of air embolism. The towel roll helps expose the subclavian area by retracting the shoulders.
A nurse is performing a central line dressing change. In which order should the antiseptic be applied?
Answer: In a circular motion from the insertion site outward, using friction for 30 seconds
Chlorhexidine should be applied in a circular motion starting from the catheter insertion site and moving outward to prevent dragging bacteria toward the site. The solution should be applied with friction for at least 30 seconds and allowed to air dry completely (approximately 2 minutes) before applying the new dressing.