Practice Test Geeks(VABC) Vascular Access Board Certification Practice Test
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Infection Prevention 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. Which organism is most commonly responsible for catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) in vascular access patients?

    Answer: Staphylococcus epidermidis

    Coagulase-negative staphylococci, particularly Staphylococcus epidermidis, are the most frequent cause of CRBSI due to their ability to form biofilms on catheter surfaces.

  2. What is the recommended maximum number of days a peripheral IV catheter should remain in place in adults before elective rotation to a new site?

    Answer: 72–96 hours

    CDC guidelines recommend replacing peripheral IV catheters every 72–96 hours in adults to reduce the risk of phlebitis and infection.

  3. A patient's PICC insertion site shows erythema, warmth, and purulent drainage 10 days post-insertion. The FIRST priority action by the vascular access nurse is to:

    Answer: Notify the provider and prepare for catheter removal

    Signs of local infection with purulent drainage indicate a likely infected catheter, requiring prompt provider notification and evaluation for removal.

  4. Chlorhexidine-impregnated sponge dressings are indicated primarily to reduce which complication of central venous catheters?

    Answer: Catheter-related bloodstream infection

    Chlorhexidine-impregnated sponge dressings reduce microbial colonization at the insertion site, thereby lowering the risk of CRBSI.

  5. When performing a central line dressing change, which action is most important for infection prevention?

    Answer: Using sterile gloves and a sterile field throughout the procedure

    Maintaining sterile technique with sterile gloves and a sterile field during dressing changes is fundamental to preventing catheter site contamination.

  6. Which of the following best describes the concept of 'biofilm' as it relates to vascular access infection risk?

    Answer: A protective coating of glycocalyx-embedded microorganisms on the catheter surface

    Biofilm is a structured community of microorganisms encased in a self-produced matrix that adheres to catheter surfaces and is highly resistant to antibiotics and host defenses.

  7. According to SHEA/IDSA guidelines, which practice is recommended to reduce CLABSI rates in ICU settings?

    Answer: Use of a standardized catheter insertion checklist and bundle approach

    Bundle approaches with standardized checklists (hand hygiene, maximal barrier precautions, CHG skin prep, optimal site selection, daily necessity review) have demonstrated significant CLABSI reductions.