VABC Patient Assessment & Evaluation 3

Question 1

A patient receiving vancomycin through a peripheral IV develops redness and streaking along the vein proximal to the insertion site. Using the INS Phlebitis Scale, this finding is BEST classified as:

Accepted Answer

Grade 3 — pain, erythema, streak formation, palpable cord

Answer

Grade 3 phlebitis is defined by pain, erythema, streak formation above the site, and a palpable venous cord.

Question 2

When performing a pre-procedure assessment for ultrasound-guided PICC placement, which finding would lead you to select a different vein than the basilic?

Accepted Answer

A non-compressible basilic vein with echogenic material on ultrasound

Answer

A non-compressible vein with internal echogenic material is diagnostic of existing thrombosis, contraindicating catheter placement in that vessel.

Question 3

A patient undergoing assessment for midline catheter placement has a documented latex allergy. Which assessment action is MOST critical before proceeding?

Accepted Answer

Confirm all supplies and tourniquet materials are latex-free

Answer

Ensuring all equipment including tourniquets, gloves, and supplies are latex-free is essential to prevent anaphylaxis in latex-allergic patients.

Question 4

Which CVAD assessment parameter should be evaluated at EVERY dressing change?

Accepted Answer

External catheter length and comparison to insertion documentation

Answer

Measuring and comparing the external catheter length at every dressing change detects migration or dislodgement early.

Question 5

A patient with a newly placed CVC reports sudden onset of sharp chest pain and dyspnea within 30 minutes of insertion. Which complication should the vascular access nurse assess for FIRST?

Accepted Answer

Venous air embolism or pneumothorax

Answer

Sudden chest pain and dyspnea immediately post-CVC insertion are classic signs of pneumothorax or air embolism, both life-threatening emergencies.

(VABC) Vascular Access Board Certification Practice Test

(VABC) Vascular Access Board Certification Practice Test

VABC Patient Assessment & Evaluation 3