To minimize the risk of vein injury when removing an IV access device, what should the nurse do?

Keeping the hub parallel to the skin during the removal of an IV access device minimizes the risk of vein injury because this technique reduces the likelihood of damaging the vein itself. When the hub is parallel, the catheter is aligned with the vein and can be pulled out smoothly without putting undue stress on the surrounding tissues. This position helps maintain the integrity of the vein as the device is withdrawn, allowing for a more controlled and gentle removal process.

In contrast, pulling the device out at an angle might increase the risk of puncturing or tearing the vein, leading to complications such as bleeding or hematoma formation. Likewise, twisting the device while removing it can also cause additional trauma to the vein as it may not facilitate a clean exit from the vessel. Lastly, refraining from applying any pressure can lead to a failure to control bleeding effectively, which can exacerbate the situation following the removal of the IV device. Each method has its own risks, but keeping the hub parallel is the safest approach to ensure vein protection.