Patient & Caregiver Education Flashcards

A caregiver is taught signs of air embolism. If the patient suddenly develops shortness of breath and chest pain after a cap disconnects, what should the caregiver do FIRST?

Answer: Clamp the catheter, place the patient on the left side with head down if tolerated, and call 911

Clamping stops further air entry, and left lateral Trendelenburg positioning may trap air in the right atrium while emergency help is summoned.

Which method is BEST for evaluating whether discharge teaching was effective?

Answer: Having the patient explain in their own words and demonstrate key skills (teach-back and return demonstration)

Teach-back and return demonstration provide objective evidence of comprehension and skill.

A patient at home notices the catheter has a crack and fluid is leaking from it. What should they be taught to do?

Answer: Clamp the catheter between the damaged area and the insertion site, cover it with sterile gauze, and contact the provider

Clamping proximal to the damage prevents air embolism and blood loss until the catheter can be repaired or replaced.

Which point should be included in teaching about hand hygiene for home central line care?

Answer: Perform hand hygiene before and after touching the catheter, dressing, or supplies

Hand hygiene before and after any catheter contact is the foundational measure for preventing CLABSI.

A patient with a central line reports redness, tenderness, and purulent drainage at the exit site but no fever. What is the most appropriate instruction?

Answer: Report it to the provider promptly for evaluation of exit-site infection

Local signs of exit-site infection require prompt evaluation even without systemic symptoms.

A patient receiving home parenteral nutrition should be taught to monitor for which complication specific to the therapy?

Answer: Hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia symptoms

PN contains high dextrose concentrations, so patients must recognize signs of glucose imbalance, especially when infusion starts or stops.

Which principle of adult learning should guide central line teaching?

Answer: Adults learn best when content is relevant to their immediate needs and they participate actively

Adult learning theory (andragogy) emphasizes relevance, problem-centered learning, and active involvement.