Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What position should a nurse place a toddler in during a femoral venipuncture?

1. Side-lying.

2. Semi-recumbent.

3. Flexed sitting.

4. Supine.

The correct answer is: Supine.

The appropriate position for a toddler during a femoral venipuncture is supine. Placing the child in a supine position ensures that they are lying flat on their back, which provides optimal access to the femoral vein located in the groin area. This position also minimizes movement and helps in stabilizing the leg, which is crucial for accurately performing the venipuncture. In this position, the nurse can effectively apply pressure to the area without the risk of the child moving or recoiling, which is particularly important given the potential for discomfort during the procedure. It also facilitates better visualization of the site for the clinician, making the venipuncture process smoother and more efficient. While side-lying, semi-recumbent, and flexed sitting positions each have their own uses in other clinical scenarios, they do not provide the same level of access and stability needed for a femoral venipuncture in a toddler.