Practice Test Geeks(VABC) Vascular Access Board Certification Practice Test
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Vascular Access Devices & Technologies 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 Vascular Access Devices & Technologies flashcards as text

  1. Which catheter feature is most important when selecting a PICC for frequent blood sampling in an adult patient?

    Answer: Largest lumen diameter compatible with vessel size

    Larger lumen diameters allow adequate blood draw flow rates without collapsing the catheter during aspiration.

  2. A valved PICC differs from a non-valved PICC primarily in that it:

    Answer: Eliminates the need for a clamp to prevent air embolism

    Valved PICCs (e.g., Groshong or PASV valve) open only under pressure differentials, eliminating the need for external clamping to prevent air entry or blood reflux.

  3. Which gauge peripheral IV catheter provides the fastest flow rate for emergency fluid resuscitation?

    Answer: 14 gauge

    Flow rate increases dramatically with larger bore catheters; a 14-gauge catheter provides the highest flow rate among standard peripheral IVs per Poiseuille's Law.

  4. What is the primary advantage of a power-injectable PICC over a standard PICC?

    Answer: Ability to withstand high-pressure contrast injection for CT imaging

    Power-injectable PICCs are rated to withstand the high pressures (typically 300 psi) generated by power injectors used for CT contrast studies.

  5. An anti-reflux valve integrated into a needleless connector functions by:

    Answer: Preventing blood backflow into the catheter upon disconnection

    Anti-reflux valves close upon syringe removal to prevent blood from entering the catheter lumen, which can reduce thrombus formation.

  6. Which vascular access device is BEST suited for a patient requiring long-term ambulatory antibiotic therapy who will self-administer medications at home?

    Answer: PICC line

    PICCs are ideal for outpatient/home infusion therapy due to their safety profile, moderate dwell time, and ease of maintenance by patients or home health nurses.

  7. The dead space volume of a needleless connector is clinically significant because it:

    Answer: Affects the amount of fluid needed to adequately flush the catheter lumen

    Dead space volume represents the fluid volume within the connector that must be displaced during flushing to ensure medication reaches the bloodstream and the catheter is adequately cleared.