To minimize pressure on a central venous access device during flushing, what should the nurse use?

Using a 10-mL syringe for flushing a central venous access device is recommended to minimize pressure. This size allows for adequate volume to ensure patency of the catheter while reducing the risk of applying excessive pressure that could damage the device or lead to complications. A smaller syringe, such as a 5-mL, may not provide enough fluid to clear the line adequately, while larger syringes can generate higher pressure when flushing due to the increase in volume without a corresponding increase in the diameter of the lumen in the catheter. Excessive pressure could lead to trauma or even rupture of the catheter, making the 10-mL syringe an optimal choice for safe and effective flushing.