A nurse is preparing to administer a medication for a client through a nontunneled percutaneous central catheter. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A nontunneled percutaneous central catheter is a central venous access device used for administering medications, fluids, and parenteral nutrition. Because it terminates in a large central vein, strict aseptic technique and proper patency maintenance are essential to prevent infection and ensure effective drug delivery. Nursing care includes flushing protocols to maintain line patency before and after medication administration. Proper handling reduces the risk of catheter occlusion and bloodstream infection. A. Applying a local anesthetic to the skin is not part of routine medication administration through an existing central line. Local anesthetics may be used during insertion of vascular access devices, but not when accessing an already placed catheter for medication delivery. B. Closing the inline clamp is incorrect before administering a medication because the clamp must be open to allow medication and flush solution to flow freely through the catheter. Clamping the line would obstruct delivery and could lead to medication backflow or line occlusion. C. Flushing the catheter with 10 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride is the correct action to ensure catheter patency before and after medication administration. This helps clear the line of residual medication, prevents drug incompatibility, and reduces the risk of occlusion. It is a standard practice for central venous catheter maintenance. D. Donning sterile gloves is not required for routine medication administration through a central line hub, although aseptic (non-touch) technique and hand hygiene are essential. Sterile gloves are typically used during catheter insertion or dressing changes, not for standard line access when proper hub disinfection is performed.