Practice Test Geeks(VABC) Vascular Access Board Certification Practice Test
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Complication Management 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.

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  1. When treating catheter-related thrombosis in an upper extremity PICC, what is the preferred initial anticoagulation agent according to current guidelines?

    Answer: Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC)

    Current guidelines recommend LMWH or DOACs as first-line anticoagulation for upper extremity DVT related to vascular access catheters.

  2. A nurse notes that a PICC line appears to have advanced several centimeters since the last documented length. What is the priority action?

    Answer: Obtain a chest X-ray to verify tip position before use

    Any change in catheter external length requires radiographic tip position confirmation before the line is used, as migration into the heart is dangerous.

  3. Which clinical sign most strongly suggests superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome as a complication of a long-term central venous catheter?

    Answer: Bilateral facial and upper extremity edema with venous distension

    SVC syndrome causes bilateral facial and upper extremity edema plus prominent neck and chest wall venous collaterals due to obstruction of the superior vena cava.

  4. A patient develops chylothorax following left-sided central venous catheter insertion. Which structure was most likely injured?

    Answer: Thoracic duct

    The thoracic duct runs near the left subclavian-jugular venous junction, and injury during left-sided CVC insertion can cause lymphatic leakage (chylothorax).

  5. A patient receiving vesicant chemotherapy through a peripheral IV develops swelling and burning pain at the infusion site. What is the immediate action?

    Answer: Stop the infusion, aspirate residual drug, and remove the IV without flushing

    With vesicant extravasation, the infusion must stop immediately, any residual drug should be aspirated through the existing catheter, and the IV removed without flushing to avoid spreading the vesicant.

  6. What is the recommended dwell time limit for peripheral IV catheters in adult patients to minimize phlebitis risk per INS standards?

    Answer: 72-96 hours based on clinical assessment

    INS standards recommend replacing peripheral IV catheters every 72-96 hours in adults or sooner if signs of complications appear.

  7. A patient develops hematoma formation immediately after PICC removal. Which vessel injury is the most common cause?

    Answer: Venous back-bleeding from the basilic or cephalic vein

    Venous back-bleeding from the access vein is the most common cause of hematoma after PICC removal; firm direct pressure for several minutes is required.