What complication can occur if an IV needle is reinserted into a catheter once it is removed?

• A. Vascular spasm
• B. Thromboembolism
• C. Air embolism
• D. Catheter Shear

Answer: (D)

Reinserting a needle into an IV catheter after removal can mechanically damage the catheter itself. The needle can catch on the catheter wall or lumen and shear or cut the material, creating a weakened area or even a fragment that breaks off. That catheter fragment can travel through the bloodstream and embolize, potentially lodging in the heart or lungs and causing serious complications. Because of this risk, the safe approach is to avoid reinserting into an indwelling catheter and instead remove and replace the catheter or establish a new access site if re-entry is needed.

Vascular spasm is a reflex constriction of a vessel and isn’t caused by reinserting a needle into a catheter. Air embolism requires introduction of air into the circulation, which isn’t the direct consequence of reinserting into the catheter. Thromboembolism involves a clot forming or traveling, not the immediate mechanical damage to the catheter itself.