Practice Test Geeks(VABC) Vascular Access Board Certification Practice Test
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Vascular Anatomy 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.

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  1. Which deep vein thrombosis location carries the highest risk of pulmonary embolism due to clot size and proximity to central circulation?

    Answer: Iliofemoral segment

    Iliofemoral DVT carries the highest risk of pulmonary embolism because clots in this proximal, large-diameter segment can dislodge and travel to the pulmonary circulation.

  2. The azygos vein drains into which central venous structure at approximately the level of T4?

    Answer: Superior vena cava

    The azygos vein arches over the right main bronchus at the T4 level and empties into the posterior aspect of the superior vena cava.

  3. Which valve is located at the junction of the subclavian and internal jugular veins and is clinically significant for preventing retrograde flow into the arm?

    Answer: Jugulo-subclavian valve

    The jugulo-subclavian valve (also called the subclavian-jugular junction valve) prevents retrograde flow and can affect catheter advancement during PICC insertion.

  4. The right lymphatic duct drains lymph from which quadrant of the body into the venous system?

    Answer: Right upper quadrant: right head, neck, arm, and right thorax

    The right lymphatic duct drains only the right upper quadrant (right head, neck, upper extremity, and right side of thorax) into the right subclavian vein.

  5. During tunneled catheter placement, the subcutaneous tunnel is created between the venous entry site and which exit location for a chest port?

    Answer: Anterior chest wall below the clavicle

    For a chest port, the subcutaneous tunnel connects the venous entry site (typically the subclavian or internal jugular) to the port pocket on the anterior chest wall below the clavicle.

  6. What is the approximate diameter difference between a vein and its accompanying artery in the upper extremity?

    Answer: Veins are typically 1.5–2 times larger in diameter than arteries

    Veins are typically 1.5–2 times larger in diameter than their corresponding arteries due to their thinner walls and lower-pressure system design.

  7. A PICC placed in the cephalic vein has a higher malposition rate due to which anatomical challenge?

    Answer: The cephalic vein makes a sharp angle entering the axillary vein at the deltopectoral groove

    The cephalic vein makes a near-90-degree turn as it passes through the deltopectoral groove to enter the axillary vein, making catheter advancement and correct positioning more difficult.