What are the signs of catheter occlusion?

• A. High blood pressure
• B. Resistance during flushing
• C. Excessive bleeding from the insertion site
• D. Fever and chills

Answer: (B)

Resistance during flushing is a key indicator of catheter occlusion. When a catheter becomes occluded, it can create a blockage that prevents fluid from flowing freely. As a result, healthcare providers may encounter increased resistance when attempting to flush the catheter with saline or other solutions. This resistance serves as a clear signal that the catheter may not be functioning properly and needs further evaluation or intervention.

Other choices may present symptoms that can be seen in various situations but do not specifically indicate a catheter occlusion. For instance, high blood pressure is not directly related to catheter performance and can result from numerous unrelated physiological factors. Similarly, excessive bleeding from the insertion site may suggest issues such as improper placement or complications but does not typically reflect occlusion. Fever and chills could point toward an infection, which is separate from the flow issues arising from occlusions. Therefore, resistance during flushing distinctly relates to the functionality of the catheter and indicates possible occlusion.