Question

What must be completed before a central line catheter can be used after it is initially inserted?

A) flushed for patency.
B) sterile dressing change.
C) X-ray for placement verification.
D) tubing change.

Answer 1

Before using a central line catheter after initial insertion, proper placement must be confirmed, usually by X-ray. The insertion site needs to be cleaned and dressed using sterile techniques, and an aseptic protocol should be followed to prevent infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

Before a central line catheter can be used after it is initially inserted, several key steps must be completed to ensure proper function and to reduce the risk of infection. First and foremost, it's essential to confirm the placement of the catheter, usually by an X-ray, to verify that it is positioned correctly within the central venous system. After confirmation, the site of insertion must be properly cleaned and dressed using sterile techniques.

A critical process prior to using the catheter is following a strict aseptic protocol. This involves hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and gowns, and proper skin disinfection. According to Dr. Pronovost's checklist, these steps significantly decrease the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections, which can lead to serious complications.

Moreover, any suspicion of infection, demonstrated by symptoms like redness, warmth at the catheter site, or fever, demands immediate attention with potential antibiotic therapy. In such cases, a tubing change may be necessary, but this activity alone does not make the catheter ready for use following initial insertion-- attention to the entire protocol is required for patient safety and effective care.

Answer 2

Before a central line catheter can be used after insertion, it must be flushed for patency, have a sterile dressing change, undergo an X-ray for placement verification, and have tubing changed if necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

Before a central line catheter can be used after it is initially inserted, several steps must be completed:

1. Flushed for patency: The line needs to be flushed with a sterile solution to ensure it is clear and there are no blockages.
2. Sterile dressing change: The site where the catheter was inserted needs to be cleaned and a new sterile dressing needs to be applied to prevent infection.
3. X-ray for placement verification: An X-ray may be taken to confirm that the catheter is properly positioned in the intended location.
4. Tubing change: If a patient no longer needs a central line, the tubing should be changed to a regular IV tubing or removed.