In the correct sequence for discontinuing IV access, which step comes second?

• A. Explain procedure to patient.
• B. Use two identifiers to ensure correct patient.
• C. Remove IV site dressing and tape.
• D. Perform hand hygiene and apply gloves.

Answer: (B)

Protecting the patient starts with confirming you’re working with the correct person. Using two identifiers—such as the patient’s full name and date of birth or medical record number—before stopping IV access is the essential check that prevents wrong-patient errors. In the usual flow, you’d first inform the patient about what will happen, then perform this identity verification to ensure you’re discontinuing IV access for the right person. After that verification, you proceed with the remaining actions (hygiene and PPE as required, then removing the IV dressing and completing the site care). The core idea is that identifying the patient is a prerequisite to any invasive action, so it’s placed early in the sequence, making it the correct second step here.