Maintenance and Care Flashcards

Which antiseptic is preferred for central line dressing site preparation in adults who are not allergic?

Answer: Chlorhexidine gluconate 2% with 70% isopropyl alcohol

Chlorhexidine gluconate 2% combined with 70% isopropyl alcohol is recommended as the primary skin antiseptic for CVC insertion and dressing changes due to superior persistent antimicrobial activity.

When should a chlorhexidine-impregnated dressing (CHG disk) be used on a CVC site?

Answer: When the CLABSI rate remains above goal despite standard practices

CDC and INS guidelines support CHG-impregnated dressings as an additional measure when CLABSI rates remain elevated despite implementation of standard prevention bundles.

A patient with a non-tunneled CVC develops redness, warmth, and purulent drainage at the insertion site. Which step should be taken FIRST?

Answer: Notify the provider and obtain site cultures before removing the catheter

The provider must be notified and cultures obtained before catheter removal so appropriate decision-making regarding salvage versus removal can be made.

What is the correct order of steps when using a needleless connector prior to medication administration?

Answer: Scrub the hub for 5-15 seconds, allow to dry, then access

Scrubbing the needleless connector for 5-15 seconds with alcohol or CHG and allowing it to dry before access ('scrub the hub') reduces microbial contamination.

An implanted port that is not in active use should be accessed and flushed at which interval to maintain patency?

Answer: Every 3 months

INS standards recommend flushing implanted ports every 3 months when not in use to maintain patency and prevent occlusion.

Which patient position is safest when removing a non-tunneled subclavian CVC?

Answer: Supine or slight Trendelenburg with the patient exhaling or performing Valsalva

Supine or Trendelenburg positioning during exhalation or Valsalva raises intrathoracic pressure and prevents air embolism during CVC removal.

After removing a CVC, pressure should be held and the site should be covered with which type of dressing?

Answer: Occlusive petroleum-based gauze dressing for at least 24 hours

An occlusive petroleum-based gauze dressing applied for at least 24 hours prevents air from entering the exit wound tract and reduces air embolism risk post-removal.