Infusion Therapy Certification Exam
Questions with Answers and Rationales
2025
1. What is the preferred site for initiating a peripheral IV in an adult
patient?
Dorsal hand veins
These veins are easily accessible and allow for visualization; distal
sites are preferred to preserve proximal sites for future use.
2. Which gauge catheter is most appropriate for rapid fluid
resuscitation?
18-gauge
Larger bore catheters allow for rapid infusion of fluids and blood
products.
3. How often should a peripheral IV site be assessed for signs of
infiltration or phlebitis?
Every 4 hours
Frequent assessment helps identify complications early and ensures
patient safety.
4. What is the correct angle for inserting a peripheral IV catheter?
10 to 30 degrees
This angle allows for proper entry into the vein without puncturing
through it.
,5. What is phlebitis?
Inflammation of a vein
Phlebitis presents with pain, redness, and warmth along the vein.
6. What should the nurse do first if infiltration is suspected?
Stop the infusion
Preventing further fluid leakage into the tissue is the priority.
7. What is the most common cause of catheter-related bloodstream
infections (CRBSIs)?
Improper hand hygiene
Hand hygiene is the most critical factor in preventing infection.
8. How often should transparent IV dressings be changed?
Every 7 days and as needed
If the dressing is intact and not soiled, weekly changes are
sufficient.
9. Which solution is isotonic?
0.9% Sodium Chloride (Normal Saline)
Isotonic fluids do not cause fluid shifts between compartments.
10. What is the primary purpose of a central venous catheter
(CVC)?
Long-term infusion therapy and access to central circulation
Central lines are used for medications that are irritating or require
stable access.
11. What should be done before accessing a central line?
Scrub the hub with antiseptic
Disinfecting the hub reduces the risk of infection.
, 12. A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is inserted
through which vein?
Basilic or cephalic vein
PICC lines are typically inserted in upper extremity veins and
threaded to the superior vena cava.
13. What complication is associated with TPN through a central
line?
Hyperglycemia
TPN has high glucose content, increasing blood sugar levels.
14. What is the first action if an air embolism is suspected during
IV therapy?
Place the patient in left lateral Trendelenburg position
This helps trap air in the right atrium and prevent it from entering
pulmonary circulation.
15. Which lab value should be monitored closely during potassium
chloride IV therapy?
Serum potassium
Monitoring potassium levels prevents hyperkalemia and cardiac
issues.
16. What is the maximum infusion rate for potassium chloride
peripherally?
10 mEq/hour
Exceeding this rate increases the risk of vein irritation and
arrhythmias.
Questions with Answers and Rationales
2025
1. What is the preferred site for initiating a peripheral IV in an adult
patient?
Dorsal hand veins
These veins are easily accessible and allow for visualization; distal
sites are preferred to preserve proximal sites for future use.
2. Which gauge catheter is most appropriate for rapid fluid
resuscitation?
18-gauge
Larger bore catheters allow for rapid infusion of fluids and blood
products.
3. How often should a peripheral IV site be assessed for signs of
infiltration or phlebitis?
Every 4 hours
Frequent assessment helps identify complications early and ensures
patient safety.
4. What is the correct angle for inserting a peripheral IV catheter?
10 to 30 degrees
This angle allows for proper entry into the vein without puncturing
through it.
,5. What is phlebitis?
Inflammation of a vein
Phlebitis presents with pain, redness, and warmth along the vein.
6. What should the nurse do first if infiltration is suspected?
Stop the infusion
Preventing further fluid leakage into the tissue is the priority.
7. What is the most common cause of catheter-related bloodstream
infections (CRBSIs)?
Improper hand hygiene
Hand hygiene is the most critical factor in preventing infection.
8. How often should transparent IV dressings be changed?
Every 7 days and as needed
If the dressing is intact and not soiled, weekly changes are
sufficient.
9. Which solution is isotonic?
0.9% Sodium Chloride (Normal Saline)
Isotonic fluids do not cause fluid shifts between compartments.
10. What is the primary purpose of a central venous catheter
(CVC)?
Long-term infusion therapy and access to central circulation
Central lines are used for medications that are irritating or require
stable access.
11. What should be done before accessing a central line?
Scrub the hub with antiseptic
Disinfecting the hub reduces the risk of infection.
, 12. A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is inserted
through which vein?
Basilic or cephalic vein
PICC lines are typically inserted in upper extremity veins and
threaded to the superior vena cava.
13. What complication is associated with TPN through a central
line?
Hyperglycemia
TPN has high glucose content, increasing blood sugar levels.
14. What is the first action if an air embolism is suspected during
IV therapy?
Place the patient in left lateral Trendelenburg position
This helps trap air in the right atrium and prevent it from entering
pulmonary circulation.
15. Which lab value should be monitored closely during potassium
chloride IV therapy?
Serum potassium
Monitoring potassium levels prevents hyperkalemia and cardiac
issues.
16. What is the maximum infusion rate for potassium chloride
peripherally?
10 mEq/hour
Exceeding this rate increases the risk of vein irritation and
arrhythmias.
