OCC OCC Vascular Access & Infusion Techniques

Question 1

Before administering chemotherapy through a port-a-cath, the nurse aspirates and gets no blood return. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Hold the chemotherapy and notify the provider to assess catheter function

Answer

Administer the chemotherapy slowly and monitor the site

Answer

Flush with 20 mL normal saline to clear the port

Answer

Reposition the patient and try aspiration again, then administer if still no return

Question 2

Which type of central venous access device is MOST appropriate for a patient requiring 6 months of intermittent chemotherapy infusions?

Accepted Answer

Implanted port (port-a-cath)

Answer

Peripheral IV catheter

Answer

Non-tunneled central venous catheter

Answer

Midline catheter

Question 3

A patient with a PICC line develops pain, erythema, and a palpable cord along the arm. What complication does the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Thrombophlebitis

Answer

Catheter occlusion

Answer

Air embolism

Answer

Catheter migration

Question 4

What is the correct flushing sequence for a positive pressure implanted port after chemotherapy administration?

Accepted Answer

Saline → heparin → clamp while maintaining positive pressure

Answer

Heparin → saline → clamp

Answer

Saline → clamp → heparin

Answer

Heparin only → clamp

Question 5

Which chemotherapy agent requires extra caution with peripheral IV administration due to its extreme vesicant properties?

Accepted Answer

Vincristine

Answer

Fluorouracil (5-FU)

Answer

Cyclophosphamide

Answer

Carboplatin

Question 6

A nurse is preparing to access an implanted port. Which action is ESSENTIAL to prevent infection?

Accepted Answer

Use a non-coring Huber needle with strict aseptic technique

Answer

Use the smallest gauge needle available

Answer

Clean the site with povidone-iodine and allow it to dry for 30 seconds

Answer

Palpate the port without gloves to locate the septum accurately