The National I.V. examination is a 61-question test that prepares medical professionals who are currently working in the field by testing their knowledge in providing care to patients by preparing intravenous access through the proper placement and documentation (charting) of intravenous catheter. Additionally, our exam tests your knowledge in to providing intravenous therapies (this may be necessary for the patient’s health under the supervision of a doctor) and taking immediate necessary steps to notify the Physician, RN, and/or the Director of the unit to ensure patient safety and promotion of health status via:
Knowledge and identification of how to insert and monitor I.V equipment and I.V. fluids by:
Maintain constant communication with team leader and or Nurse/Physician regarding patient’s health status. Communicate articulately the status of the patient to the team leader/Nurse/Physician in such a manner that is keeping with the use of correct medical terminology and asking questions which will help promote the patient’s health, while contributing observations both objective and subjective regarding the patient’s fluid intake, possible allergic reactions, I.V. bag status, drip ratio’s and other pertinent observations.
Recognize trending patterns and report changes immediately.
Using safe practices such as manipulation of a sterile or nonsterile product intended to produce a sterile final product. Understand drip ratio, drip-rate calculations, different catheter gauges and proper documentation of I.V. insertion and removal.
Administering I.V. fluids in a medical facility (i.e., hospital or urgent care). Read prescription orders and be able to calculate the amount of drug needed to add to a solution to create the dosage required by the patient for a desired effect. Must know pharmaceutical math. Understand and apply in every situation the patient’s current disease state and the complications that may be associated with I.V. fluid therapy.
Understand medications well enough to recognize errors or misprints. Also, be aware of which medications would contradict each other.
Keep his or her equipment sterile so he or she does not contaminate the I.V. solution so as to cause an infection by using both sterile and aseptic techniques.
Aseptic techniques are as follows:
Gaining a national certification from the National I.V. Association is a great addition to your resume that will allow you to negotiate higher salaries with your current or potential employers. Invest in your future today and register for the National I.V. Exam, or, explore our other course options to help you prepare and give you the best chance of passing the exam on the first try.