VABC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield VABC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. How does the VABC body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework that guides decision-making and standard practices
2. A patient's implanted port cannot be de-accessed because the needle is stuck in the septum. What is the most appropriate initial step? → Rotate the needle 90 degrees while applying gentle outward pressure
3. Chlorhexidine-impregnated sponge dressings are indicated primarily to reduce which complication of central venous catheters? → Catheter-related bloodstream infection
4. What role does collaboration play in catheter types for VABC professionals? → It enhances outcomes through diverse perspectives and shared expertise
5. What are the signs of infection at a vascular access site? → Redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and fever at the insertion site
6. What is the value of continuing education in pediatric access for VABC professionals? → It keeps professionals current with evolving standards and practices
7. An anti-reflux valve integrated into a needleless connector functions by: → Preventing blood backflow into the catheter upon disconnection
8. Which medication preparation would be CONTRAINDICATED for peripheral IV administration due to its osmolarity? → Potassium Chloride 40 mEq in 100 mL (~800 mOsm/L)
9. What role does collaboration play in documentation for VABC professionals? → It enhances outcomes through diverse perspectives and shared expertise
10. What is the primary purpose of documenting the external catheter length after each assessment of a PICC? → To detect catheter migration over time
11. A VABC professional discovers a conflict of interest in a current assignment. What is the MOST ethical course of action? → Disclose the conflict immediately and recuse if necessary
12. In VABC practice, what is the best approach to quality improvement in pediatric access? → Use data-driven methods with measurable outcomes
13. What is the value of continuing education in infection prevention for VABC professionals? → It keeps professionals current with evolving standards and practices
14. Which professional attribute is most valued in catheter types within the VABC field? → Accountability and commitment to standards
15. A neonate requires umbilical venous catheter (UVC) placement. The correct tip position is: → At the junction of the inferior vena cava and right atrium
16. An umbilical venous catheter (UVC) tip should ideally be positioned at which location? → Junction of the inferior vena cava and right atrium
17. Which of the following represents a Grade 4 phlebitis finding according to the INS Phlebitis Scale? → Pain, erythema, streak, palpable cord, and purulent drainage
18. In the setting of CRBSI with Staphylococcus aureus, what is the minimum recommended duration of systemic antibiotic therapy when the catheter is removed? → 14 days
19. Which clinical sign most strongly suggests superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome as a complication of a long-term central venous catheter? → Bilateral facial and upper extremity edema with venous distension
20. A fibrin sheath encasing a catheter tip is BEST treated with which pharmacologic intervention? → Alteplase (tPA) dwell followed by forceful aspiration
21. Why is regular follow-up care essential for vascular access device maintenance? → To ensure proper device function and detect complications early
22. Which approach best demonstrates mastery of documentation in VABC practice? → Applying principles to novel situations with sound judgment
23. A hemodialysis patient's AV fistula has a bruit that has changed from soft and continuous to harsh and discontinuous. What does this indicate? → High-grade stenosis causing turbulent flow
24. A vascular access nurse notices spontaneous collapse of the target vein during ultrasound scanning without probe pressure. The most likely explanation is: → Hypovolemia causing low venous pressure
25. Under CDC guidelines, routine replacement of central venous catheters over a guidewire is indicated in which situation? → When catheter malfunction occurs in the absence of infection
26. The thoracic duct drains lymph from which side of the body into the venous system? → Most of the body except the right upper quadrant
27. Which factor is most important when evaluating the quality of scientific research for VABC? → Methodology, sample size, and peer review status
28. What is the role of a control group in scientific experiments related to VABC? → To provide a baseline for comparison
29. What is the key hemodynamic indication that distinguishes use of a pulmonary artery catheter (Swan-Ganz) from a standard CVC? → Direct measurement of pulmonary artery pressures and cardiac output
30. What distinguishes a valved PICC (such as a Groshong PICC) from a non-valved PICC? → It has a three-position valve that reduces blood reflux and air entry