A nurse is preparing to initiate IV therapy for an older adult client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Rationale: A. Select a vein on the back of the hand: Veins on the dorsum of the hand are more fragile in older adults and have less subcutaneous tissue, increasing the risk of infiltration or phlebitis. Larger veins on the forearm are preferred for safer and more stable IV access. B. Apply a tourniquet firmly above the insertion site: Excessive tourniquet pressure can damage fragile veins and impair circulation in older adults. The tourniquet should be applied gently enough to distend the vein without causing bruising or discomfort. C. Clean the site using vigorous friction: Vigorous scrubbing can irritate or damage delicate skin in older adults. The site should be cleansed using gentle, circular motions with appropriate antiseptic solution to reduce infection risk without causing trauma. D. Use a 22-gauge catheter for insertion: A 22-gauge catheter provides an appropriate balance between ease of insertion and adequate flow rate for older adult clients. Smaller-gauge catheters minimize trauma to fragile veins while still allowing effective IV therapy.