What is a potential hazard associated with air exposure during CVAD manipulation?

What is a potential hazard associated with air exposure during CVAD manipulation?

• A. Fluid overload
• B. Infection
• C. Air embolism
• D. Thrombosis

Answer: (C)

Air embolism is a significant potential hazard associated with air exposure during Central Venous Access Device (CVAD) manipulation. This condition occurs when air enters the vascular system, leading to the formation of air bubbles in the bloodstream. Such air bubbles can travel through the veins and potentially obstruct blood flow, causing serious complications such as cardiovascular collapse or stroke. This risk exists particularly during phases of CVAD management, such as insertion, removal, or when changing components of the system where the line may momentarily be open to the atmosphere. Preventive measures, such as keeping the CVAD secured and filled with fluid when not in use, as well as ensuring that any necessary air purging procedures are performed correctly, are critical to mitigating this risk. Understanding the danger of air embolism highlights the need for careful technique when handling CVADs, as well as the importance of maintaining an aseptic and closed system to avoid introducing air into the vascular system.

Air embolism is a significant potential hazard associated with air exposure during Central Venous Access Device (CVAD) manipulation. This condition occurs when air enters the vascular system, leading to the formation of air bubbles in the bloodstream. Such air bubbles can travel through the veins and potentially obstruct blood flow, causing serious complications such as cardiovascular collapse or stroke. This risk exists particularly during phases of CVAD management, such as insertion, removal, or when changing components of the system where the line may momentarily be open to the atmosphere.

Preventive measures, such as keeping the CVAD secured and filled with fluid when not in use, as well as ensuring that any necessary air purging procedures are performed correctly, are critical to mitigating this risk. Understanding the danger of air embolism highlights the need for careful technique when handling CVADs, as well as the importance of maintaining an aseptic and closed system to avoid introducing air into the vascular system.