EMT Pre-Quiz #3

What is the second step in preparing the IV site, after washing your hands?

• Put on gloves.

• Put on a gown.

• Put on eye protection.

• Put on a mask.

Answer explanation

The second step in preparing the IV site is to put on gloves. This is important to ensure proper hygiene and prevent the spread of infection. Wearing gloves helps to protect both the healthcare provider and the patient from potential contamination. By putting on gloves, the healthcare provider can minimize the risk of introducing harmful bacteria or other pathogens into the IV site, ensuring a safe and sterile procedure.

Photo by Laura James

When preparing to insert the needle into the skin, the bevel should be:

• Down

• Up

• It doesn't matter.

Answer explanation

• The bevel should be up when preparing to insert the needle into the skin because this allows for a smoother entry and reduces the risk of tissue damage. When the bevel is up, the sharp tip of the needle is the first to make contact with the skin, minimizing discomfort for the patient. Additionally, inserting the needle with the bevel up helps to ensure proper alignment and control during the procedure.

How can you verify that you have entered the vein with the IV catheter?

• You will be able to see the catheter through the skin.

• You learn through experience where the vein should be located.

• You observe a flash back of blood.

• You palpate with your non-dominated hand for the “pop” of the vein when the needle enters it.

Answer explanation

When you observe a flashback of blood, it indicates that the IV catheter has entered the vein successfully. This means that the needle has punctured the vein, allowing blood to flow into the catheter, which can be seen as a flashback of blood. This is a reliable way to verify that the IV catheter is in the vein and not in the surrounding tissue or muscle.

What step would you take if you attempted IV access and are unsure of proper placement?

• Remove the catheter and try again.

• Attempt to flush the catheter.

• Pull the catheter back a few millimeters and check for blood return.

• Go ahead and begin IV infusion.

Answer explanation

If you have attempted IV access and are unsure of proper placement, attempting to flush the catheter would be the appropriate step. Flushing the catheter with a small amount of saline solution can help confirm proper placement by ensuring that the fluid flows freely and without resistance. If the catheter is properly placed, the saline solution will flow easily. However, if there is resistance or no flow, it may indicate that the catheter is not in the correct position and further assessment or repositioning may be necessary.

Interosseous needles are used to inject fluid/medications into what part of the bone?

• Bone marrow

• Articular Cartilage

• Compact bone

• Epiphyseal Line