Material required for applying pressure at the IV site is?

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2016

Explanation

The primary goal after removing an IV catheter is to achieve hemostasis (stop the bleeding) at the puncture site.
A sterile swab, such as a sterile gauze pad, is the appropriate material because it is absorbent, non-irritating, and sterile.
Applying direct, firm pressure with a sterile gauze helps control bleeding and prevents the introduction of pathogens into the open site, reducing the risk of infection.
Procedure guidelines for IV cannula removal explicitly list sterile gauze as the equipment used to apply pressure until hemostasis is achieved.

Option A: An alcohol swab is used for disinfecting the skin before IV insertion. Applying it to an open puncture site causes pain and can inhibit the clotting process.
Option B: A Betadine (povidone-iodine) swab is an antiseptic used for skin preparation before a procedure. It is not designed for absorption or applying pressure to a bleeding site.
Option D: An adhesive bandage is applied to protect the site after bleeding has completely stopped. It is not used to apply the initial pressure needed to achieve hemostasis.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Post-IV catheter removal care and hemostasis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Proper technique during IV catheter removal is a fundamental nursing skill to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Failure to apply adequate pressure with the correct material can lead to complications such as hematoma formation (a collection of blood under the skin), prolonged bleeding, and site infection.
Nursing assessment includes checking the site for bleeding or hematoma after the pressure dressing is removed and instructing the patient to report any subsequent swelling, pain, or bleeding.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the clinical task described in the question: applying pressure to an IV site. The purpose is to stop bleeding after catheter removal.
Next, evaluate the function of each option in the context of IV therapy.
Consider the properties needed for the task: the material must be sterile (to prevent infection), absorbent (to manage blood), and non-irritating.
Eliminate options that do not fit these criteria. Alcohol and Betadine are for disinfection, not pressure. An adhesive bandage is for covering, not applying initial pressure.
Select the option that is specifically designed for applying pressure to achieve hemostasis in a sterile manner, which is the sterile swab (gauze).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Vital Signs p. 57-59

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor pp. 801-803, 815-817

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