PICC Line Insertion & Maintenance 4

Question 1

Which antiseptic agent is the PREFERRED skin preparation for PICC insertion in patients over 2 months of age?

Accepted Answer

>0.5% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% isopropyl alcohol

Answer

Chlorhexidine-alcohol solution provides superior residual antimicrobial activity compared to povidone-iodine and alcohol alone, per CDC and INS guidelines.

Question 2

When should a transparent semipermeable membrane (TSM) dressing on a PICC be changed?

Accepted Answer

Every 5–7 days or sooner if integrity is compromised

Answer

TSM dressings are changed every 5–7 days per INS standards, but must be changed immediately if wet, soiled, or lifting.

Question 3

The purpose of using a vein finder or near-infrared device prior to PICC insertion is to:

Accepted Answer

Identify superficial vein anatomy before ultrasound assessment

Answer

Near-infrared devices visualize superficial veins for preliminary assessment but do not replace ultrasound for real-time needle guidance during insertion.

Question 4

Which complication is MOST directly associated with failure to maintain a bloodless field during PICC insertion?

Accepted Answer

Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI)

Answer

Blood contamination at the insertion site introduces skin flora into the catheter tract, significantly increasing CRBSI risk.

Question 5

A PICC nurse is about to insert a line when the patient reports a latex allergy. The nurse should:

Accepted Answer

Use latex-free gloves and latex-free insertion supplies

Answer

All supplies including gloves, tourniquet, and dressing components must be latex-free to prevent anaphylaxis in latex-allergic patients.

(PICC) Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Certified Nurse Practice Test

(PICC) Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Certified Nurse Practice Test

PICC Line Insertion & Maintenance 4