The practical nurse is preparing to draw up a prescribed medication from a glass ampule. Arrange the following steps in the correct chronological order.
- 1Tap the top of the ampule lightly to move all fluid into the lower chamber.
- 2Place an alcohol swab or small gauze pad around the neck of the ampule.
- 3Snap the neck of the ampule quickly and firmly away from the body.
- 4Attach a filter needle to the syringe and withdraw the prescribed amount of medication.
- 5Replace the filter needle with an appropriate administration needle.
Answer
The correct sequence is: tap the top of the ampule, place a gauze pad around the neck, snap the neck away from the body, attach a filter needle to withdraw the medication, and finally replace the filter needle with an administration needle.
Safe medication preparation from an ampule requires a specific sequence to prevent injury to the nurse and the client. First, fluid must be cleared from the neck to ensure an accurate dose. Second, the nurse protects their hands with a pad or swab. Third, the ampule is snapped safely away from the body. Fourth, a filter needle is used to draw up the medication, ensuring no glass particles enter the syringe. Finally, the filter needle is replaced with a regular needle for safe administration.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe Preparation of Medication from an Ampule