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Pediatric Access Flashcards

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

Read the first 7 Pediatric Access flashcards as text
  1. Which vein is the preferred site for peripheral IV access in a neonate when antecubital and hand veins are unavailable?

    Answer: Scalp vein

    Scalp veins are an acceptable and commonly used peripheral IV site in neonates when extremity veins are not accessible.

  2. What is the maximum recommended dwell time for a peripheral IV catheter in a pediatric patient?

    Answer: 72–96 hours

    Current guidelines recommend rotating peripheral IV sites every 72–96 hours in pediatric patients, or sooner if signs of complications arise.

  3. A 3-year-old presents with dehydration and multiple failed peripheral IV attempts. Which vascular access device is most appropriate as an immediate bridge?

    Answer: Intraosseous device

    Intraosseous access provides rapid, reliable vascular access in pediatric emergencies when peripheral IV attempts have failed.

  4. Which of the following is a contraindication to intraosseous (IO) insertion in a pediatric patient?

    Answer: Fracture in the target bone

    A fracture in the target bone is a contraindication to IO insertion at that site because fluid may extravasate through the fracture.

  5. When calculating catheter-to-vein ratio for pediatric peripheral IVs, what is the maximum recommended ratio to minimize thrombosis risk?

    Answer: 33%

    The catheter should occupy no more than 33% of the vessel lumen to allow adequate blood flow and reduce thrombophlebitis risk.

  6. Which gauge catheter is most appropriate for routine peripheral IV placement in a 6-month-old infant?

    Answer: 22–24 gauge

    22–24 gauge catheters are standard for infants, balancing adequate flow rates with vessel size and minimizing trauma.

  7. What is the primary advantage of using ultrasound guidance for peripheral IV placement in pediatric patients with difficult access?

    Answer: Allows visualization of deeper veins not visible or palpable

    Ultrasound guidance enables cannulation of deeper veins that cannot be seen or felt, significantly improving first-attempt success rates in difficult pediatric access.