IV THERAPY AND BLOOD WITHDRAWAL
CERTIFICATION PRACTICE EXAM QUESTIONS
AND CORRECT ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS)
WITH RATIONALES 2025
1. What is the most appropriate angle of insertion for a peripheral IV
catheter?
b. 10–30 degrees
This angle allows for proper entry into the vein without overshooting or
puncturing through it.
2. Which size catheter is most appropriate for rapid fluid administration in an
adult trauma patient?
a. 18 gauge
Larger gauge catheters (like 18G) allow for faster fluid administration due
to lower resistance.
3. What is the primary purpose of using a tourniquet during venipuncture?
c. To distend the vein
The tourniquet temporarily restricts venous return, making the vein more
prominent for access.
4. Which of the following is a contraindication to blood withdrawal from an
arm?
, b. An arm with a dialysis fistula
Accessing a fistula arm may damage the device or compromise its function.
5. What is the correct order of draw when using multiple blood collection
tubes?
a. Blood cultures, light blue, red, green, lavender, gray
Following the order of draw prevents cross-contamination of additives
between tubes.
6. What complication is most commonly associated with IV therapy?
d. Phlebitis
Phlebitis, or vein inflammation, can result from catheter movement, vein
trauma, or irritant solutions.
7. Which sign indicates infiltration at the IV site?
b. Swelling and coolness
Infiltration occurs when fluid leaks into surrounding tissue, causing swelling
and cool temperature.
8. What is the maximum time an IV site should remain without site rotation
per CDC guidelines?
c. 72–96 hours
To reduce infection risk, IV sites are typically rotated every 72–96 hours
unless clinically justified.
9. Which solution is isotonic and commonly used to maintain hydration?
a. 0.9% Sodium chloride (Normal Saline)
Normal saline has the same osmolarity as plasma, making it safe for volume
expansion.
, 10.Which technique should be used when inserting an IV to prevent infection?
d. Aseptic technique
Proper aseptic technique minimizes the risk of introducing pathogens during
IV insertion.
11.What is the best vein choice for IV insertion in the adult upper extremity?
c. Cephalic vein
The cephalic vein is easily accessible, relatively large, and has fewer valves.
12.During blood withdrawal, what should you do if the patient reports
numbness or tingling?
b. Stop the procedure immediately
These symptoms may indicate nerve involvement and must be evaluated
immediately.
13.What action should be taken before flushing a central line?
a. Aspirate for blood return
Confirming blood return ensures the catheter is in the vein and not
dislodged.
14.What does hemoconcentration mean during blood withdrawal?
c. Concentration of cells due to prolonged tourniquet application
Keeping the tourniquet on too long can cause hemoconcentration, affecting
test results.
15.Which blood tube should be gently inverted 8–10 times after collection?
b. Lavender top
This tube contains EDTA and must be mixed well to prevent clotting.
CERTIFICATION PRACTICE EXAM QUESTIONS
AND CORRECT ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS)
WITH RATIONALES 2025
1. What is the most appropriate angle of insertion for a peripheral IV
catheter?
b. 10–30 degrees
This angle allows for proper entry into the vein without overshooting or
puncturing through it.
2. Which size catheter is most appropriate for rapid fluid administration in an
adult trauma patient?
a. 18 gauge
Larger gauge catheters (like 18G) allow for faster fluid administration due
to lower resistance.
3. What is the primary purpose of using a tourniquet during venipuncture?
c. To distend the vein
The tourniquet temporarily restricts venous return, making the vein more
prominent for access.
4. Which of the following is a contraindication to blood withdrawal from an
arm?
, b. An arm with a dialysis fistula
Accessing a fistula arm may damage the device or compromise its function.
5. What is the correct order of draw when using multiple blood collection
tubes?
a. Blood cultures, light blue, red, green, lavender, gray
Following the order of draw prevents cross-contamination of additives
between tubes.
6. What complication is most commonly associated with IV therapy?
d. Phlebitis
Phlebitis, or vein inflammation, can result from catheter movement, vein
trauma, or irritant solutions.
7. Which sign indicates infiltration at the IV site?
b. Swelling and coolness
Infiltration occurs when fluid leaks into surrounding tissue, causing swelling
and cool temperature.
8. What is the maximum time an IV site should remain without site rotation
per CDC guidelines?
c. 72–96 hours
To reduce infection risk, IV sites are typically rotated every 72–96 hours
unless clinically justified.
9. Which solution is isotonic and commonly used to maintain hydration?
a. 0.9% Sodium chloride (Normal Saline)
Normal saline has the same osmolarity as plasma, making it safe for volume
expansion.
, 10.Which technique should be used when inserting an IV to prevent infection?
d. Aseptic technique
Proper aseptic technique minimizes the risk of introducing pathogens during
IV insertion.
11.What is the best vein choice for IV insertion in the adult upper extremity?
c. Cephalic vein
The cephalic vein is easily accessible, relatively large, and has fewer valves.
12.During blood withdrawal, what should you do if the patient reports
numbness or tingling?
b. Stop the procedure immediately
These symptoms may indicate nerve involvement and must be evaluated
immediately.
13.What action should be taken before flushing a central line?
a. Aspirate for blood return
Confirming blood return ensures the catheter is in the vein and not
dislodged.
14.What does hemoconcentration mean during blood withdrawal?
c. Concentration of cells due to prolonged tourniquet application
Keeping the tourniquet on too long can cause hemoconcentration, affecting
test results.
15.Which blood tube should be gently inverted 8–10 times after collection?
b. Lavender top
This tube contains EDTA and must be mixed well to prevent clotting.
