Patient & Caregiver Education Flashcards

Which teaching method best confirms that a caregiver understands how to flush a central line at home?

Answer: Having the caregiver demonstrate the flush procedure while the nurse observes

Return demonstration lets the nurse directly verify psychomotor skill and correct technique before discharge.

A patient going home with a PICC asks how often the transparent semipermeable membrane (TSM) dressing should be changed if it stays intact. What is the correct response?

Answer: At least every 7 days

Per INS standards, TSM dressings are changed at least every 7 days or sooner if damp, loosened, or soiled.

When teaching a patient with low health literacy about central line care, which approach is MOST appropriate?

Answer: Use plain language, limit content to key points, and use teach-back

Plain language, chunking of essential content, and teach-back improve comprehension for patients with limited health literacy.

A patient with a tunneled central venous catheter should be taught that which activity must be avoided?

Answer: Swimming or submerging the catheter site in water

Submerging the catheter in pools, hot tubs, or baths increases infection risk and is generally discouraged.

Which instruction should a caregiver receive about scrubbing the needleless connector before accessing a central line?

Answer: Scrub with an alcohol or chlorhexidine-alcohol pad using friction for the recommended time and allow it to dry

Vigorous friction disinfection of the hub followed by drying time reduces intraluminal contamination.

Which sign should a patient with a central line be taught to report IMMEDIATELY?

Answer: Fever with chills, especially during or after a flush or infusion

Fever and rigors around the time of line use suggest catheter-related bloodstream infection and need urgent evaluation.

Before discharge teaching begins, which assessment is the nurse's FIRST priority?

Answer: Assessing the learner's readiness, preferred learning style, and barriers to learning

Effective teaching starts with a learning needs assessment, including readiness, literacy, language, and physical or cognitive barriers.