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Peripheral venous catheter and IV therapy: RCSI aptitude test practice questions
About this topic
Peripheral venous catheter and IV therapy on the RCSI theory paper
PVC care bundle, VIP score, priming lines, fluid balance, phlebitis and line infection.
24 multiple-choice questions, each with an explanation and the document it was checked against. Three questions are free; the pass opens the other 21 and every other topic. Wrong answers come back first the next time you practise, and a question counts as mastered after two correct answers in a row.
Sample questions from this topic
Question 1
How should a sharp be disposed of after cannulation?
- APlaced on the trolley and disposed of once the procedure is finished
- BHanded to a colleague to dispose of while the site is dressed
- CRecapped carefully and put in the clinical waste bag
- DImmediately by the user into an approved sharps container
Show answer
Answer: D. HSE AMRIC 2026: all used sharps must be disposed of carefully into an approved sharps container. Never recap, never pass sharps to others, never leave them on a trolley; the person who used the sharp disposes of it.
Question 2
Which staff may insert and maintain peripheral cannulas under the Irish guideline?
- ACompetent trained staff, or supervised trainees
- BAny registered member of the ward nursing or medical staff
- CMedical staff only, with nurses limited to maintenance
- DHealthcare assistants once they have completed the training
Show answer
Answer: A. Irish guideline: only staff who are trained and assessed as competent, or trainees under the supervision of competent staff, may insert and maintain peripheral cannulas. Competence is maintained through regular practice.
Question 3
A patient is going home with a peripheral line for community IV antibiotics. What does the Irish guideline require before discharge?
- ARemoval of the dressing before leaving
- BEducation for patient and carers plus a leaflet
- CNothing; the community nurse will explain
- DA prescription for prophylactic antibiotics
Show answer
Answer: B. Irish guideline: before discharge with a line for community IV therapy, the clinical team must educate the patient and carers on managing the line, recognising signs of infection and whom to contact, supported by an information leaflet.
The practice above shuffles the options each time and keeps your score. 30 more free questions across the paper, with a PDF.
Documents behind these questions
Every fact was checked against the public document named on the answer. This topic draws on: