Catheter Types Flashcards
7 cards from real VABC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Catheter Types flashcards as text
What is the recommended dwell time limit for a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIV) in an adult patient without signs of complications?
Answer: 72-96 hours or clinically indicated replacement
Current INS and CDC guidelines support replacing PIVs at 72-96 hours in adults or based on clinical indication rather than routine scheduled replacement.
Which catheter type is specifically designed to monitor central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2) continuously?
Answer: Oximetry CVC with fiberoptic technology
Oximetry CVCs incorporate fiberoptic technology to continuously measure ScvO2, providing real-time data on oxygen delivery and consumption balance.
A dialysis catheter placed in the femoral vein carries a higher infection risk than a jugular or subclavian site primarily because of which factor?
Answer: Proximity to the groin with higher bacterial colonization and reduced patient mobility
The femoral site has higher skin bacterial colonization, limited ability to apply dressings effectively, and reduced patient mobility, all contributing to higher CLABSI risk.
Which feature distinguishes a pressure-activated safety valve (PASV) catheter from a standard open-ended catheter?
Answer: Its valve opens only above a threshold pressure differential, preventing passive blood reflux
PASV catheters have a valve that opens only when infusion or aspiration pressure exceeds a set threshold, passively preventing blood reflux at rest without a clamp.
In pediatric patients, which catheter provides central venous access via an extremity vein when neck or chest placement poses unacceptable risks?
Answer: PICC line
PICC lines are frequently used in pediatric patients to achieve central venous access through peripheral extremity veins, avoiding the higher-risk neck or chest insertion sites.
What is the maximum recommended dwell time for a non-tunneled, non-cuffed central venous catheter before considering replacement or conversion to a tunneled device?
Answer: 14 days
Non-tunneled CVCs are generally recommended for short-term use up to approximately 14 days; beyond this, conversion to a tunneled or implanted device is preferred to reduce infection risk.
Which catheter design feature helps anchor a tunneled catheter subcutaneously and reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement and ascending infection?
Answer: Dacron polyester cuff
The Dacron cuff on tunneled catheters promotes fibrous tissue ingrowth that mechanically anchors the catheter and creates a barrier against microorganism migration along the tunnel.