CRNI Managing Infusion Complications 2

Question 1

A patient with a central venous catheter suddenly develops unilateral facial and arm swelling. What complication should the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Superior vena cava syndrome from catheter-related thrombosis

Answer

Allergic reaction to the catheter material

Answer

Pneumothorax

Answer

Catheter migration

Question 2

What is the FIRST action when infiltration of a non-vesicant solution is suspected?

Accepted Answer

Stop the infusion and disconnect the IV tubing

Answer

Apply a warm compress to the area

Answer

Aspirate residual fluid from the catheter

Answer

Elevate the extremity and continue monitoring

Question 3

Which sign differentiates mechanical phlebitis from chemical phlebitis?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical phlebitis typically occurs within 24-48 hours of insertion and relates to catheter size and movement

Answer

Mechanical phlebitis presents with fever

Answer

Chemical phlebitis shows purulent drainage

Answer

There is no clinical difference between them

Question 4

A patient with a PICC line reports inability to flush the catheter. After repositioning the arm, flushing is successful. What is the likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Positional occlusion from catheter tip against the vessel wall

Answer

Complete catheter occlusion

Answer

Catheter fracture

Answer

Fibrin sheath formation

Question 5

What is the appropriate intervention for a suspected air embolism during central line tubing change?

Accepted Answer

Place the patient in left lateral Trendelenburg position and administer 100% oxygen

Answer

Elevate the head of bed and administer oxygen

Answer

Position the patient supine and call a code

Answer

Have the patient perform Valsalva maneuver and continue the tubing change

Question 6

A patient receiving total parenteral nutrition through a CVC develops sudden fever, tachycardia, and hypotension. Blood glucose is 45 mg/dL. What complication should be suspected?

Accepted Answer

Catheter-related bloodstream infection with hypoglycemia from sepsis

Answer

Refeeding syndrome

Answer

Simple hypoglycemia from insulin excess

Answer

TPN fluid overload