Final answer:
To discontinue an IV line, a nurse should use sterile gauze to apply pressure after catheter removal to minimize infection risk and ensure patient safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse has a written prescription to discontinue an intravenous (IV) line, they will need to apply pressure to the site after removing the IV catheter. To do this, the nurse should obtain sterile gauze from the unit supply area. This is preferable because it is designed to be used in medical settings for applying pressure and absorbing any fluids that may come from the IV site upon removal. Using sterile gauze helps to minimize the risk of infection and ensure patient safety. An adhesive bandage may be applied after the bleeding has stopped to protect the site. Cotton balls are generally not recommended for applying pressure to IV sites as they can adhere to the skin and fibers can enter the wound site, potentially causing irritation or infection. An elastic bandage is typically used for sprains or to support an area and is not suitable for applying direct pressure to a small puncture site such as where an IV catheter has been.