What is the recommended action for a nurse when planning to insert a peripheral IV catheter for an older adult client?

Placing the client's arm in a dependent position is recommended when inserting a peripheral IV catheter for an older adult client. This positioning enhances venous filling by allowing gravity to aid in distending the veins, making them more visible and easier to access. Older adults often experience diminished vein elasticity and may have smaller veins, so facilitating venous distension is crucial for successful catheter insertion.

In contrast, keeping the arm elevated above the heart would hinder venous return and likely make it more difficult to locate and access veins. Asking the client to hold their arm straight up can create similar issues, as it would not assist with venous filling. While wrapping the arm with a heating pad might help to dilate the veins, it is not the primary recommendation, as the effect may not be as immediate or effective as simply placing the arm in a dependent position. Thus, the recommended action aligns with best practices for maximizing vein accessibility during IV catheter insertion in older adults.