Which action should be taken after removing an IV catheter to prevent bleeding?

• A. Apply pressure to the site to stop the bleeding.
• B. Massage the area to promote closure.
• C. Leave the site exposed to air.
• D. Call the nurse manager.

Answer: (A)

Direct, firm pressure on the Iv removal site is essential to stop bleeding. When the catheter is removed, a small puncture in the vein remains, and pressing with clean gauze helps the blood to clot and seals the vessel. Maintain pressure until bleeding stops and a stable clot forms, then apply a clean dressing and monitor the site.

Avoid massaging the area, as that can reopen the puncture and restart bleeding. Leaving the site exposed won’t stop bleeding and can raise infection risk. Calling the nurse manager isn’t needed for this immediate step, since controlling the bleeding is an ordinary nursing responsibility.