OCC Vascular Access & Infusion Techniques Flashcards
6 cards from real OCC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 OCC Vascular Access & Infusion Techniques flashcards as text
Before administering chemotherapy through a port-a-cath, the nurse aspirates and gets no blood return. What is the MOST appropriate next step?
Answer: Hold the chemotherapy and notify the provider to assess catheter function
Lack of blood return from a port-a-cath before chemotherapy administration requires provider notification and catheter assessment to prevent extravasation of vesicant drugs.
Which type of central venous access device is MOST appropriate for a patient requiring 6 months of intermittent chemotherapy infusions?
Answer: Implanted port (port-a-cath)
An implanted port is the preferred long-term vascular access device for intermittent chemotherapy due to its durability, low infection risk, and patient comfort.
A patient with a PICC line develops pain, erythema, and a palpable cord along the arm. What complication does the nurse suspect?
Answer: Thrombophlebitis
Pain, redness, and a palpable cord along the vessel indicate thrombophlebitis, a known complication of PICC lines requiring immediate evaluation.
What is the correct flushing sequence for a positive pressure implanted port after chemotherapy administration?
Answer: Saline → heparin → clamp while maintaining positive pressure
The correct sequence is saline flush followed by heparin lock while maintaining positive pressure to prevent blood backflow and clot formation in the port.
Which chemotherapy agent requires extra caution with peripheral IV administration due to its extreme vesicant properties?
Answer: Vincristine
Vincristine is a potent vesicant that causes severe tissue necrosis on extravasation, requiring central venous access and vigilant infusion monitoring.
A nurse is preparing to access an implanted port. Which action is ESSENTIAL to prevent infection?
Answer: Use a non-coring Huber needle with strict aseptic technique
A non-coring Huber needle is required to access implanted ports without coring the silicone septum, and strict aseptic technique prevents catheter-related bloodstream infections.
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