Online IV Therapy Certification Course Final
Exam Questions and Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) with Rationales 2025
1. What is the preferred site for peripheral IV insertion in adults?
cephalic vein of the forearm
The cephalic vein is superficial, easily accessible, and has a lower risk
of complications compared to areas like the hand or antecubital
fossa.
2. Which gauge catheter is most appropriate for administering
blood products?
18 gauge
An 18-gauge catheter allows rapid flow and prevents hemolysis of
blood cells during transfusion.
3. What is the main risk associated with starting an IV in the lower
extremities?
Increased risk of thrombophlebitis
Veins in the lower extremities are more prone to inflammation and
clot formation due to slower circulation and movement.
4. Which of the following is a sign of infiltration?
,Coolness and swelling at the site
Infiltration occurs when fluid leaks into surrounding tissue, causing
cool, swollen, and sometimes painful areas.
5. Before inserting an IV, which step is performed first?
Hand hygiene
Hand hygiene prevents transmission of pathogens and is the first step
in any sterile procedure.
6. What is the best angle of insertion for a peripheral IV catheter?
10 to 30 degrees
A shallow angle facilitates easier entry into superficial veins and
reduces trauma.
7. The maximum hang time for an IV bag without additives is:
24 hours
IV fluids without additives are typically safe for up to 24 hours before
replacement is required.
8. When should an IV site be rotated?
Every 72 to 96 hours
To minimize the risk of infection and phlebitis, IV sites should be
changed within this timeframe.
9. Which fluid is isotonic?
0.9% Sodium Chloride
Isotonic fluids have the same osmotic pressure as blood plasma,
helping maintain fluid balance.
, 10. What does the abbreviation "KVO" mean?
Keep vein open
This indicates a low infusion rate to maintain IV access patency.
11. Which complication is characterized by a red, warm, and
painful IV site?
Phlebitis
Phlebitis is inflammation of the vein, typically due to mechanical or
chemical irritation.
12. What is the first action when an air embolism is suspected?
Clamp the IV line
Clamping prevents further air from entering the circulation.
13. Which of the following is a hypertonic solution?
D10W
Hypertonic solutions have higher osmotic pressure and draw water
out of cells.
14. A central line dressing should be changed:
Every 7 days or when soiled
To reduce infection risk, transparent dressings on central lines are
changed weekly or when compromised.
15. What is the best method to confirm correct placement of a
central venous catheter?
Exam Questions and Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) with Rationales 2025
1. What is the preferred site for peripheral IV insertion in adults?
cephalic vein of the forearm
The cephalic vein is superficial, easily accessible, and has a lower risk
of complications compared to areas like the hand or antecubital
fossa.
2. Which gauge catheter is most appropriate for administering
blood products?
18 gauge
An 18-gauge catheter allows rapid flow and prevents hemolysis of
blood cells during transfusion.
3. What is the main risk associated with starting an IV in the lower
extremities?
Increased risk of thrombophlebitis
Veins in the lower extremities are more prone to inflammation and
clot formation due to slower circulation and movement.
4. Which of the following is a sign of infiltration?
,Coolness and swelling at the site
Infiltration occurs when fluid leaks into surrounding tissue, causing
cool, swollen, and sometimes painful areas.
5. Before inserting an IV, which step is performed first?
Hand hygiene
Hand hygiene prevents transmission of pathogens and is the first step
in any sterile procedure.
6. What is the best angle of insertion for a peripheral IV catheter?
10 to 30 degrees
A shallow angle facilitates easier entry into superficial veins and
reduces trauma.
7. The maximum hang time for an IV bag without additives is:
24 hours
IV fluids without additives are typically safe for up to 24 hours before
replacement is required.
8. When should an IV site be rotated?
Every 72 to 96 hours
To minimize the risk of infection and phlebitis, IV sites should be
changed within this timeframe.
9. Which fluid is isotonic?
0.9% Sodium Chloride
Isotonic fluids have the same osmotic pressure as blood plasma,
helping maintain fluid balance.
, 10. What does the abbreviation "KVO" mean?
Keep vein open
This indicates a low infusion rate to maintain IV access patency.
11. Which complication is characterized by a red, warm, and
painful IV site?
Phlebitis
Phlebitis is inflammation of the vein, typically due to mechanical or
chemical irritation.
12. What is the first action when an air embolism is suspected?
Clamp the IV line
Clamping prevents further air from entering the circulation.
13. Which of the following is a hypertonic solution?
D10W
Hypertonic solutions have higher osmotic pressure and draw water
out of cells.
14. A central line dressing should be changed:
Every 7 days or when soiled
To reduce infection risk, transparent dressings on central lines are
changed weekly or when compromised.
15. What is the best method to confirm correct placement of a
central venous catheter?
