IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025
Medical Surgical Nursing
Easy

The presence of air bubble in vein is known as :

Appeared in: IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Explanation

  • An air embolism is the presence of gas bubbles in the vascular system, which can obstruct blood flow.
  • The question specifies the presence of an air bubble in a vein, which is known as a venous air embolism.
  • This condition is a known complication of intravenous therapy, central line placement, and certain surgical procedures.
  • The air travels to the right side of the heart and can block the pulmonary artery, leading to a life-threatening emergency.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option A: A pulmonary embolism is typically caused by a blood clot (thromboembolism) that travels to the lungs, not an air bubble.
  • Option B: An arterial embolism involves a blockage in an artery. The question specifically mentions the air bubble is in a vein.
  • Option C: Extravasation is the leakage of IV fluid or medication into the tissue surrounding the vein, not the presence of air inside the vein.

Related Visual

An illustration showing the pathway of a venous air embolus from a peripheral IV site, through the vena cava, into the right atrium and ventricle, and lodging in the pulmonary a...
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and types of embolism as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • Nurses play a critical role in preventing air embolism by meticulously priming all IV tubing to remove air before connecting it to a patient.
  • During central line care (insertion, dressing changes, removal), it is vital to use proper technique, such as placing the patient in Trendelenburg position during removal, to prevent air entry.
  • Recognizing the signs of air embolism (sudden dyspnea, chest pain, hypotension, cyanosis) and acting quickly by clamping the line and positioning the patient can be life-saving.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, identify the key terms in the question: 'air bubble' and 'vein'.
  • This combination points to a specific type of obstruction in the venous system caused by gas.
  • Next, evaluate the options based on their definitions.
  • Pulmonary embolism relates to clots in the lung artery.
  • Arterial embolism relates to blockages in arteries.
  • Extravasation relates to fluid leaking outside a vein.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Definition and types of embolism
  • Stem keywords: air bubble, vein
  • Lead-in keywords: known as

Question ID

Q9p36bxs5Tc9UvRu1I92H9

Reference Book

E6 PATHOLOGY QUICK REVIEWBased on Harsh Mohan Textbook of PATHOLOGY p. 53-55

E6 Pathology-Textbook of PATHOLOGYHarsh Mohan Part 1 (1-214) p. 207-209

Practise the full IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.

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