Practice Test Geeks(VA-BC) Vascular Access Nurse Certification Practice Test
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Catheter Types Flashcards

7 cards from real VA-BC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. What is the primary advantage of a valved PICC (e.g., PASV or Groshong-type) over an open-ended PICC?

    Answer: It reduces the need for heparin flushing by preventing blood reflux

    Valved PICCs prevent blood from refluxing into the catheter lumen, reducing clot formation and often eliminating the need for heparin flushes.

  2. Which of the following best describes a 'power-injectable' PICC?

    Answer: A PICC rated to withstand contrast injection at up to 300 psi

    Power-injectable PICCs are constructed to tolerate high-pressure contrast media injection (typically up to 300 psi) required for CT imaging.

  3. A patient has a tunneled catheter with a Dacron cuff. Where is the cuff ideally positioned after placement?

    Answer: 1–2 cm inside the subcutaneous tunnel from the exit site

    The Dacron cuff is positioned 1–2 cm inside the subcutaneous tunnel from the exit site so fibrous tissue ingrowth anchors the catheter and forms a barrier against infection.

  4. Which catheter material is most resistant to thrombotic occlusion due to its surface characteristics?

    Answer: Silicone

    Silicone has a smooth, hydrophobic surface with low thrombogenicity, making it more resistant to thrombus formation compared to stiffer materials like PVC or Teflon.

  5. A midline catheter tip should terminate in which anatomical location?

    Answer: Proximal basilic or cephalic vein below the axilla

    Midline catheter tips terminate in the proximal basilic, cephalic, or brachial vein below the axilla, not reaching central circulation.

  6. Which of the following is a defining feature of an implanted venous port compared to a tunneled CVC?

    Answer: Its reservoir is completely beneath the skin with no external component

    An implanted port is entirely subcutaneous—the reservoir and catheter are under the skin, requiring access only with a non-coring (Huber) needle.

  7. A patient receiving parenteral nutrition requires a multi-lumen CVC. Why is a dedicated lumen for PN important?

    Answer: Dedicating one lumen reduces contamination risk and prevents drug incompatibilities

    A dedicated PN lumen reduces infection risk and prevents chemical incompatibilities between PN and other infusates or medications.