VABC Patient Assessment & Evaluation 2

Question 1

A patient reports a PICC line was placed 3 days ago but now has pain and swelling along the upper arm. Which assessment finding would most strongly suggest catheter-related thrombosis?

Accepted Answer

Pitting edema of the ipsilateral arm with visible collateral veins

Answer

Pitting edema with visible collateral veins indicates venous outflow obstruction consistent with upper extremity DVT.

Question 2

When assessing a patient's vein quality for peripheral IV placement, which characteristic indicates a vein is most suitable for cannulation?

Accepted Answer

Feels soft, bouncy, and refills after pressure is released

Answer

A soft, bouncy vein that refills after compression indicates patent, healthy venous structure ideal for cannulation.

Question 3

Which Braden Scale score indicates a patient is at HIGH risk for pressure injury and should factor into vascular access site selection?

Accepted Answer

Score of 12 or below

Answer

A Braden Scale score of 12 or below indicates high risk for pressure injury, requiring careful site selection to avoid further skin compromise.

Question 4

A nurse is assessing a patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) prior to vascular access placement. Which assessment finding should prompt immediate escalation before proceeding?

Accepted Answer

Serum potassium of 6.8 mEq/L

Answer

A serum potassium of 6.8 mEq/L indicates severe hyperkalemia, which poses immediate cardiac risk requiring physician notification before any invasive procedure.

Question 5

During initial assessment for vascular access, a patient states they received chemotherapy through a port 5 years ago. What is the MOST important follow-up assessment?

Accepted Answer

Determine if the port is still in place and functional

Answer

Determining whether the port remains implanted and its current status is critical to avoid redundant device placement or complications with an existing device.

(VABC) Vascular Access Board Certification Practice Test

(VABC) Vascular Access Board Certification Practice Test

VABC Patient Assessment & Evaluation 2