Certainly! Below are the questions along with their answers and the rationale behind each response:
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What is the most commonly used vein for IV insertion in the arm?
- B. Cephalic vein
- Rationale: The cephalic vein is commonly chosen for IV insertion because it is generally more accessible and located laterally on the forearm. It is larger and often easier to cannulate compared to other veins in the area.
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What layer of the vein is most critical for successful IV catheter placement?
- C. Tunica intima
- Rationale: The tunica intima is the innermost layer of the vein, which provides a smooth surface for the catheter to navigate through. A proper interaction with this layer is essential for minimizing trauma and ensuring successful catheter placement.
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Which veins are located in the antecubital fossa?
- B. Cephalic, basilic, and median cubital veins
- Rationale: The antecubital fossa contains these three primary veins. The median cubital vein is often preferred for phlebotomy because of its superficial position and accessibility, but all three veins can be utilized for IV access.
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What is the function of the venous valves?
- C. Prevent backflow of blood
- Rationale: Venous valves are one-way valves that promote the unidirectional flow of blood back to the heart, preventing the backflow that could lead to pooling or varicose veins.
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Why are arteries not used for routine IV therapy?
- C. They have higher pressure and thicker walls.
- Rationale: Arteries operate under higher pressure compared to veins and have thicker, more muscular walls. This makes them unsuitable for routine IV therapy, as puncturing an artery can result in complications like excessive bleeding or hematoma formation.
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At what angle should you insert an IV catheter into a superficial vein?
- B. 15–30 degrees
- Rationale: Inserting at a 15–30 degree angle allows for optimal entry into a superficial vein. This angle helps to prevent puncturing through the vein and ensures that the catheter can be advanced once venous access is obtained.
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What is the purpose of a tourniquet during IV insertion?
- C. To occlude venous blood flow and distend the vein
- Rationale: A tourniquet is applied to temporarily occlude venous return, which increases the visibility and palpability of veins by causing them to distend with blood.
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How can you differentiate between an artery and a vein during palpation?
- C. Arteries have a pulse, while veins do not.
- Rationale: Arteries carry blood away from the heart and have a palpable pulse due to the pressure from the heartbeat, while veins do not exhibit a pulse, as they transport deoxygenated blood back to the heart.
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When should you advance the catheter and retract the needle?
- A. When you see a flashback of blood in the catheter hub
- Rationale: A flashback of blood indicates that the catheter tip has successfully entered the lumen of the vein, confirming proper placement before advancing the catheter and retracting the needle.
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What is the significance of seeing a flashback of blood during IV insertion?
- B. It confirms the catheter is in the vein.
- Rationale: The presence of blood in the catheter hub acts as an immediate confirmation that venous access has been achieved, which is crucial for proceeding with IV therapy.
This comprehensive breakdown provides clarity on each question, highlighting the importance of understanding venous access principles in the context of nursing or medical practice.
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