PICC PICC Pharmacology & Medication Administration

Question 1

Which pH range of medications is considered vesicant and requires central venous access such as a PICC for safe administration?

Accepted Answer

pH less than 5 or greater than 9

Answer

pH 6.0–8.0

Answer

pH 5.0–9.0

Answer

pH 4.5–7.5

Question 2

A patient is receiving vancomycin through a PICC line. Which laboratory value must be monitored to ensure therapeutic dosing and prevent toxicity?

Accepted Answer

Serum creatinine and vancomycin trough levels

Answer

Complete blood count (CBC)

Answer

Liver function tests (LFTs)

Answer

Prothrombin time (PT/INR)

Question 3

Which medication classification is considered an absolute indication for central venous access due to peripheral vein toxicity?

Accepted Answer

Vesicant chemotherapy agents such as doxorubicin

Answer

Isotonic saline solutions

Answer

Oral anticoagulants converted to IV

Answer

Standard maintenance IV fluids

Question 4

A PICC nurse is preparing to administer total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which PICC lumen is the preferred choice for TPN infusion?

Accepted Answer

A dedicated lumen used exclusively for TPN

Answer

The lumen used most recently for blood draws

Answer

The smallest lumen available

Answer

Any available lumen in a multilumen PICC

Question 5

Which two medications are commonly used together via PICC in outpatient settings and require close monitoring for potential incompatibility?

Accepted Answer

Ampicillin and gentamicin

Answer

Normal saline and dextrose 5% in water

Answer

Cefazolin and heparin flush

Answer

Morphine and normal saline

Question 6

Before administering phenytoin via a PICC line, the nurse should ensure the catheter is flushed with which solution to prevent precipitation?

Accepted Answer

Normal saline (0.9% NaCl)

Answer

Dextrose 5% in water (D5W)

Answer

Lactated Ringer's solution

Answer

Sterile water for injection