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
A pediatric patient with sickle cell disease requires frequent blood transfusions. Which vascular access device best balances repeated access needs with infection risk?
Answer: Implanted port
An implanted port offers the lowest infection risk for frequent but intermittent access needs, with no external components when not in use.
Which intraosseous insertion site is preferred in children over 6 years of age when tibial access is unavailable?
Answer: Distal femur
The distal femur is an alternative IO insertion site in older children and adults when the proximal tibia is not accessible.
When securing a peripheral IV in a toddler, which method is most appropriate to prevent accidental dislodgement while allowing ongoing assessment?
Answer: Sterile transparent dressing with site visible, and a splint as needed
A transparent semipermeable membrane dressing keeps the site visible for ongoing assessment while securing the catheter, with a splint added for joint sites if needed.
Which clinical sign BEST indicates infiltration of a peripheral IV in a preverbal child who cannot report symptoms?
Answer: Localized swelling, firmness, or skin blanching around the insertion site
Localized swelling, induration, or blanching at the IV site are objective signs of infiltration, especially important in preverbal patients who cannot verbalize pain.
A 2-year-old receiving vesicant chemotherapy via peripheral IV develops swelling at the site. What is the FIRST action?
Answer: Stop the infusion immediately and aspirate residual drug before removing the catheter
When vesicant extravasation is suspected, the infusion must be stopped immediately and residual drug aspirated before catheter removal to limit tissue damage.
Which measurement method is used to estimate PICC insertion length in a pediatric patient prior to placement?
Answer: External measurement from insertion site to the sternal notch and then down to the third intercostal space
External anatomical measurement from the intended insertion site to the sternal notch and then to the third intercostal space is the standard method for estimating PICC length.
In a pediatric patient, which characteristic of a vein makes it a POOR choice for PICC insertion?
Answer: Vein located in a joint flexion area
Veins located at or near joint flexion areas increase the risk of catheter kinking, occlusion, and damage with limb movement.