UKOMNAS PDVF study guide
UKOMNAS PDVF · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
UKOMNAS PDVF is a professional certification for nurses and clinicians who insert, manage and remove vascular access devices, with a particular emphasis on peripherally inserted and central catheters. It is aimed at practitioners who already perform or are moving into device insertion and who want structured, credential-level recognition of their competence in ultrasound-guided peripheral access, central venous access, aseptic technique and complication management. The UKOMNAS PDVF study guide has 10 sections and about 2,710 words.
01Fundamentals of Vascular Access and the PDVF Role
This domain tests how you match a vascular access device to the patient’s therapy, duration, vein condition, and risk profile, and how the PDVF clinician works within a defined scope. Vascular access is a continuum: peripheral short catheter, midline, PICC, nontunnelled or tunnelled CVC, and implantable port.
303 words, about 2 min02Anatomy, Physiology, and Vascular Assessment
This domain tests whether you can identify safe target veins, recognise structures at risk, and use assessment findings-not guesswork-to choose a site. Upper limb superficial veins: dorsal venous network, cephalic vein (lateral), basilic vein (medial), median cubital vein, and median forearm vein.
309 words, about 2 min03Pre-procedural Patient Evaluation and Informed Consent
This domain tests structured pre-procedure assessment, device planning, and consent that is genuinely informed rather than a signature. Confirm indication, prescribed therapy, expected duration, solution properties, and alternatives.
278 words, about 1 min04Infection Prevention, Asepsis, and Sterile Technique
This domain tests insertion and maintenance bundles that prevent catheter-related bloodstream infection. Hand hygiene before and after every step.
277 words, about 1 min05Peripheral Venous Access: Devices, Insertion, and Ultrasound Guidance
This domain tests selection and insertion of short peripheral catheters, including ultrasound rescue of difficult veins. Choose the smallest gauge that meets flow and therapy needs; larger gauges do not automatically prevent phlebitis.
278 words, about 1 min06Central Venous Access and Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters
This domain tests indications, insertion principles, tip confirmation, and site selection for central devices. Central access is indicated for non-peripherally compatible solutions, long-term therapy, vasopressors, concentrated electrolytes, poor peripheral access, and some sampling needs.
268 words, about 1 min07Complications, Recognition, and Emergency Management
This domain tests early recognition and first response to mechanical, infectious, thrombotic, and infusion-related complications. Early mechanical: arterial puncture, haematoma, pneumothorax, haemothorax, nerve injury, arrhythmia, air embolism, catheter malposition.
250 words, about 1 min08Device Maintenance, Care, and Removal
This domain tests daily care that keeps devices patent and safe, and removal when the indication ends. Assess site and device every shift or visit: redness, swelling, pain, drainage, catheter length, dressing integrity, and function.
285 words, about 1 min09Documentation, Quality Assurance, and Clinical Governance
This domain tests accurate records, audit, incident reporting, and use of evidence to improve practice. Document contemporaneously: indication, consent, device type, size, and lot, site, ultrasound findings, number of attempts, operator, complications, tip confirmation, dressing, and patient education.
226 words, about 1 min10Professional, Ethical, and Legal Aspects of Practice
This domain tests scope of practice, consent, confidentiality, advocacy, and accountability in vascular access. Practise only within your training and authorisation.
236 words, about 1 min