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    ATI RN Comprehensive Per 2023 Proctored Exam

    A nurse is teaching a client who is to undergo placement of a nontunneled percutaneous central venous access device. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A reason: Catheter placement for a nontunneled central venous access device is typically confirmed by X-ray, not a CT scan, to verify tip placement in the superior vena cava. CT scans are less common due to higher radiation and cost, making this statement inaccurate for standard practice. Choice B reason: Elevating the head as high as possible during insertion is incorrect, as the Trendelenburg position (head down) is often used to distend veins and reduce air embolism risk. High head elevation could complicate insertion and increase complications, making this instruction inappropriate. Choice C reason: Flushing the catheter with saline daily maintains patency, preventing clots and ensuring functionality of the nontunneled central venous access device. This is a standard care instruction, reducing infection and occlusion risks, and aligns with evidence-based protocols for central line maintenance, making it correct. Choice D reason: Lying flat for 24 hours post-procedure is not required for nontunneled central venous catheters. Patients may need brief bed rest (e.g., 30 minutes) to prevent bleeding, but 24 hours is excessive and not evidence-based, making this instruction incorrect and overly restrictive.

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