Question

The nurse has inserted a peripheral intravenous catheter into a client. What is the appropriate action when a blood return is not obtained?

a. Insert the IV catheter further
b. Begin infusing the IV fluid
c. Change the site of catheter insertion
d. Pinch IV tubing to prohibit initial infusion.

Answer 1

If a blood return is not obtained after inserting a peripheral IV catheter, the nurse should change the site of catheter insertion to ensure proper venipuncture and reduce the risk of complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse inserts a peripheral intravenous catheter and a blood return is not obtained, the appropriate action is not to insert the IV catheter further or begin infusing the IV fluid. Instead, the nurse should change the site of catheter insertion. This is because the lack of blood return may indicate that the catheter is not in the vein, which could lead to complications such as infiltration or tissue damage. Ensuring effective venipuncture is essential for the delivery of medications, fluids, and to prevent the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections like those caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis.