A nurse is initiating a peripheral IV infusion punctures the skin and selected vein and observes blood return in the flashback chamber of the IV catheter. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform next?
a. secure the catheter to the skin with a transparent dressing
b. lover the catheter until it is almost flush with the skin
c. advance the catheter about 1/4 inch into the vein
d. remove the stylet slowly from the lumen of the catheter