In preparing to insert an intravenous catheter for a thin, emaciated patient, which intervention supports high-quality IV care?

• A. Flush the IV line with normal saline to maintain patency.
• B. Stop the insertion procedure when there is a break in technique.
• C. Change the intravenous line every 72 to 96 hours to prevent infection.
• D. Use an 18-gauge needle for this patient.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining IV line patency is essential for reliable delivery of fluids and medications. Flushing the line with normal saline helps keep the catheter open by pushing out any clotting material or debris, confirming patency, and allowing immediate administration without delays. This is especially important in a thin, emaciated patient where veins are small and more prone to occlusion or infiltration. By verifying that the line flows smoothly, you prevent interruptions in therapy and reduce the need to reinsert or reposition the catheter. Other options don’t directly keep the line functioning: stopping the procedure for a break in technique is a safety measure, but it doesn’t ensure the line stays patent; changing the line on a routine schedule isn’t universally required and doesn’t guarantee patency; using a larger-gauge needle in fragile veins increases trauma and risk.