Collection ProceduresQuestion 32 of 100
Blood flow stops shortly after a good flash is seen. Which corrective action is appropriate?
a.Rotate the needle slightly or advance it a small amount, and confirm the tube is fully seated
b.Pull the needle nearly out and reinsert it at a new angle
c.Move the needle rapidly side to side to find the vein
d.Ask the patient to pump the fist continuously for one minute
Explanation
Loss of flow is often caused by the bevel resting against a vein wall, a partially seated tube or a collapsed vein, so gentle rotation, slight advancement or reseating the tube usually restores flow. Withdrawing and reinserting or moving the needle laterally can lacerate the vein and injure nerves. Continuous fist pumping falsely elevates potassium and does not solve a positional problem.
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