What size syringe should the nurse use to flush a single lumen central venous catheter?

The 10-mL syringe is the recommended size for flushing a single lumen central venous catheter (CVC) due to its balance between ensuring adequate pressure while minimizing the risk of catheter damage. Using a syringe that is too small, such as a 5-mL syringe, can generate excessive pressure during flushing, potentially leading to catheter rupture or dislodgment.

The 10-mL syringe provides sufficient volume to effectively clear the catheter of blood and medication residues while still being small enough to handle easily. It also adheres to the "no smaller than 10 mL" guideline commonly referenced in clinical practice, which helps maintain safety and efficacy in catheter management.

Using larger syringes, such as a 20-mL or 30-mL syringe, is generally unnecessary and can lead to waste or difficulty in handling. Hence, the 10-mL syringe is the optimal choice for routine flushing of single lumen central venous catheters, balancing both safety and practical use.