Free CRNI Exam Questions That Helps Candidates Pass

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation: Concentrated potassium solutions (typically >40 mEq/L or higher rates) are high-risk medications that must be delivered through a central venous access device to ensure rapid dilution and prevent chemical phlebitis or tissue necrosis. Peripheral and midline catheters are unsuitable for such concentrations. Safe electrolyte administration is a core Infusion Therapies competency.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation: A significant drop in platelet count accompanied by new thrombosis during heparin therapy is highly suggestive of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. The nurse must notify the provider immediately, anticipate cessation of all heparin products, and prepare foralternative anticoagulation and laboratory confirmation. Recognition of this serious adverse effect is essential within Infusion Therapies (Cardiovascular section).

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation: New limb swelling during heparin therapy raises concern for deep-vein thrombosis or heparin-induced thrombocytopenia with thrombosis. The nurse performs a focused assessment, notifies the provider, and prepares for laboratory testing and possible imaging. Adjusting the rate or applying comfort measures without evaluation delays diagnosis. Monitoring for complications of anticoagulant therapy is essential within Infusion Therapies.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation: Most power-injectable PICCs are rated for a maximum injection pressure of 300 psi when used with a power injector for contrast media. Exceeding the manufacturer’s pressure rating risks catheter rupture or separation. Nurses must verify the specific device labeling and institutional protocol before power injection. Knowledge of equipment capabilities, including power-injectable features, is part of the Technology and Clinical Applications subsection of Access Devices.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation: Tunneled central venous catheters are surgically placed so that a portion of the catheter lies in a subcutaneous tunnel; a Dacron or similar cuff within the tunnel encourages fibrous tissue ingrowth that stabilizes the device and creates a barrier to infection. Non-tunneled catheters and PICCs lack this tunnel and cuff; midlines are peripheral devices. Accurate device identification is a foundational Access Devices competency.