What is a possible effect of excessive pressure during device flushing?

Excessive pressure during device flushing can indeed lead to potential damage to the vascular access device. When a flush is performed with too much pressure, it can cause the catheter or the connections to become compromised, potentially leading to ruptures, leaks, or dislodgement. This can not only impair the functionality of the device but also pose risks to the patient, such as bleeding or infection from non-sterile fluid entering the bloodstream.

Maintaining appropriate pressure during flushing is vital to ensure that the device remains intact and works effectively for medication delivery or drawing blood without introducing any complications. Understanding the mechanics of how a vascular access device operates is crucial for healthcare providers to avoid the risks associated with improper flushing techniques.