What action should the nurse take to prevent air emboli during IV therapy?

What action should the nurse take to prevent air emboli during IV therapy?

• A. Clamp the tubing
• B. Prime the tubing completely
• C. Change the lock every 24 hours
• D. Use a larger gauge needle

Answer: (B)

Priming the IV tubing completely is essential in preventing air emboli during IV therapy. Air emboli can occur when air enters the vascular system, which may lead to serious complications, including obstructed blood flow and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues. When the tubing is not fully primed, residual air can remain in the line, increasing the risk of these complications when the IV is in use. By fully priming the tubing, the nurse ensures that all air is expelled from the IV line, providing a continuous flow of fluid and reducing the risk of air entering the circulation. This practice is a critical component of safe IV administration, as it helps maintain the integrity of the vascular access and ensures the patient receives the intended therapy without interruption or risk. While other options may address different aspects of IV therapy safety and effectiveness, they do not specifically target the prevention of air emboli as effectively as ensuring the tubing is completely primed.

Priming the IV tubing completely is essential in preventing air emboli during IV therapy. Air emboli can occur when air enters the vascular system, which may lead to serious complications, including obstructed blood flow and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues. When the tubing is not fully primed, residual air can remain in the line, increasing the risk of these complications when the IV is in use.

By fully priming the tubing, the nurse ensures that all air is expelled from the IV line, providing a continuous flow of fluid and reducing the risk of air entering the circulation. This practice is a critical component of safe IV administration, as it helps maintain the integrity of the vascular access and ensures the patient receives the intended therapy without interruption or risk.

While other options may address different aspects of IV therapy safety and effectiveness, they do not specifically target the prevention of air emboli as effectively as ensuring the tubing is completely primed.