Which action demonstrates correct sterile technique for IV insertion?

• A. Reuse syringes between patients
• B. Skip hand hygiene if busy
• C. Use sterile technique for IV insertion
• D. Administer antibiotics without gloves

Answer: (C)

The essential idea is preventing infection by keeping everything involved in IV insertion sterile. Using sterile technique means preparing the skin with an appropriate antiseptic, donning sterile gloves, maintaining a sterile field, and using sterile, single-use equipment for cannulation. This careful asepsis minimizes the risk of introducing microbes into the bloodstream during insertion.

Reusing syringes between patients, skipping hand hygiene, or administering antibiotics without gloves all break essential infection-control practices and raise the chance of cross-contamination. Sterile technique for IV insertion directly addresses these risks by maintaining a clean, uncontaminated environment for the procedure.