How can a nurse ensure the patency of an IV line?

How can a nurse ensure the patency of an IV line?

• A. By applying a tourniquet
• B. By flushing the IV catheter with saline
• C. By elevating the IV site
• D. By changing the IV site regularly

Answer: (B)

Flushing the IV catheter with saline is the most effective way to ensure the patency of an IV line. This process involves introducing a sterile saline solution through the catheter, which helps to clear any blockages or potential clots that may have formed inside the catheter or at the catheter tip. By doing this, the nurse can confirm that the IV route is open and functioning properly, allowing for the safe administration of medications or fluids as needed. In contrast, applying a tourniquet is typically used to engorge the vein for easier access during the initial insertion of the IV and does not contribute to maintaining the patency of an established line. Elevating the IV site may help improve venous return in some situations but does not directly verify or maintain the patency of the IV catheter. Regularly changing the IV site is important for preventing infection and complications, but it is not a method for ensuring that an existing line is patent at that moment.

Flushing the IV catheter with saline is the most effective way to ensure the patency of an IV line. This process involves introducing a sterile saline solution through the catheter, which helps to clear any blockages or potential clots that may have formed inside the catheter or at the catheter tip. By doing this, the nurse can confirm that the IV route is open and functioning properly, allowing for the safe administration of medications or fluids as needed.

In contrast, applying a tourniquet is typically used to engorge the vein for easier access during the initial insertion of the IV and does not contribute to maintaining the patency of an established line. Elevating the IV site may help improve venous return in some situations but does not directly verify or maintain the patency of the IV catheter. Regularly changing the IV site is important for preventing infection and complications, but it is not a method for ensuring that an existing line is patent at that moment.