If an IV line is not running fast enough and there are no signs of infiltration, what should you check?

Prepare for the EMT Special Populations Exam. Use flashcards and delve into multiple-choice questions. Get detailed hints and explanations for each question to ensure you're exam-ready!

The correct action to take in this scenario is to check whether the tourniquet has been released. A tourniquet applied for too long or not removed properly can impede venous return and significantly reduce the flow rate of the IV fluid. If the tourniquet is still in place, it can cause a buildup of pressure in the vein, which may restrict the flow of fluids through the IV line.

In addition, the other options would not directly address the issue of flow rate if there are no signs of infiltration. Checking for kinks in the IV tubing is essential to ensure optimal flow, but if there are no visible kinks, this may not resolve the situation. Ensuring the line is clamped would also be contradictory to the goal of increasing flow, as a clamped line would prevent any fluid from running. Verifying the correct fluid is always good practice, but it may not be relevant if fluid is currently running but just at a slow rate. Removing the tourniquet, however, deals directly with one of the most common causes of a sluggish IV flow, reinforcing the importance of ensuring proper venous access.

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