Before initiating infusion of an IV solution through a newly inserted central venous catheter, what must the nurse check?

Before initiating an infusion of an IV solution through a newly inserted central venous catheter, it is essential to check the results of a portable chest x-ray. This step is crucial because a chest x-ray can confirm the correct placement of the catheter tip within the central venous system, usually in the superior vena cava or right atrium. Ensuring proper placement helps to minimize the risk of complications such as pneumothorax, arrhythmias, or inadvertent placement in a non-central location which could lead to ineffective therapy or injury.

While documentation of the insertion, client allergy history, and site sterilization confirmation are all vital components of safe IV therapy, they do not specifically address the immediate concern of catheter placement in relation to safely administering an IV solution. Proper confirmation through imaging is a critical step in ensuring the catheter's effectiveness and the overall safety of the patient during IV therapy.