A nurse is preparing to insert an IV catheter for a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Choose a vein that is palpable and straight. A palpable, straight vein provides the best access for successful IV catheter insertion. It allows for easier threading of the catheter and reduces the risk of complications like infiltration. B. Select a site on the client's dominant arm. The non-dominant arm is usually preferred to minimize interference with daily activities and reduce the risk of dislodgement due to frequent use. C. Elevate the client's arm prior to insertion. Elevating the arm can decrease venous filling, making veins less prominent and harder to access. Instead, the arm should be placed in a dependent position to promote vein distention. D. Apply a tourniquet below the venipuncture site. The tourniquet should always be placed above the insertion site to restrict venous return and make the veins more prominent and easier to access.