Knowledge assessment on IV Cannulation

What size of cannula would you use in a patient who needed a rapid blood transfusion?

• a) 18 gauge.

• b) 20 gauge.

• c) 22 gauge.

• d) 24 gauge.

How many attempts should you make to cannulate a patient before passing the job on to a senior colleague?

• a) 4

• b) 3

• c) 2

• d) 1

How often should a cannula be flushed?

• a) Every 4 hours.

• b) Every 8 hours.

• c) Every 12 hours.

• d) Every 16 hours

How long can a cannula remain in situ?

• a) 24 hours.

• b) 36 hours.

• c) 48 hours.

• d) 96 hours.

Two of the following are evident - pain at IV site, erythema, and swelling. What stage on the phlebitis scale is this and what should you do?

• a) Stage 1 - observe cannula.

• b) Stage 2 - re-site cannula.

• c) Stage 3 - re-site cannula and consider treatment.

• d) Stage 0 - do nothing.

Which one of the following is not a use for intravenous infusions?

• a) Administer prescribed intravenous fluid.

• b) Administer dyes or contrast media for radiographic examinations.

• c) Administer prescribed blood products.

• d) To orally hydrate a patient.

A 14-16 gauge needle is most likely to be used for:

• a) children.

• b) elderly patients.

• c) inserting in the back of the hand.

• d) trauma or burns patients.

What angle should be used when inserting an IV catheter?

• a) 5-15 degrees

• b) 15-30 degrees

• c) 90 degrees

• d) 50-75 degrees

Why is it recommended to use the smaller gauge of catheter for IV cannulation if possible?

• a) To administer larger volumes of fluids

• b) To minimize discomfort for the patient

• c) To allow for faster blood sampling

• d) To reduce the risk of phlebitis

What is the purpose of intravenous (IV) cannulation?

• a) To facilitate respiratory support

• b) To monitor blood pressure continuously

• c) To allow for venous access for blood sampling and fluid/medication administration

• d) To provide arterial access for blood sampling