Ultrasound Guidance Flashcards

Which ultrasound probe orientation allows visualization of the needle tip entering the vessel lumen in real time during PICC insertion?

Answer: Longitudinal (long-axis) view

The longitudinal (long-axis) view aligns the probe parallel to the vessel, allowing continuous visualization of the entire needle shaft and tip as it enters the lumen.

When using ultrasound to assess for a catheter tip malposition into the internal jugular vein, which finding confirms the malposition?

Answer: Catheter visible in the IJV lumen on ultrasound

Visualizing the catheter as a hyperechoic structure within the IJV lumen on ultrasound confirms malposition into that vessel.

A vascular access nurse is scanning a patient's arm and notes a vessel that collapses completely with gentle probe pressure. This finding most likely indicates:

Answer: A patent vein

Patent veins are compressible and collapse easily under gentle probe pressure, distinguishing them from arteries and thrombosed vessels.

What is the primary advantage of using a sterile ultrasound probe cover and gel during vascular access procedures?

Answer: Maintains a sterile field to reduce infection risk

Sterile probe covers and gel maintain the sterile field during vascular access, reducing the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infection.

During ultrasound-guided venipuncture, the nurse observes the needle tip pushing the anterior vessel wall inward without entering the lumen. This is called:

Answer: Tenting

Tenting occurs when the needle indents the anterior vessel wall without penetrating it, often requiring slight advancement or angle adjustment to enter the lumen.

Which structure appears as a pulsatile, non-compressible, round hypoechoic structure on ultrasound in a transverse view?

Answer: Artery

Arteries appear as round, pulsatile, non-compressible structures on transverse ultrasound, distinguishing them from veins which are easily compressed.

When obtaining ultrasound consent and documenting a pre-procedure vessel assessment, which measurement is most critical to record for PICC placement selection?

Answer: Vessel depth from skin surface

Vessel depth guides catheter selection and technique; veins deeper than 1.5 cm typically require ultrasound guidance and longer needles for successful cannulation.