During a clinical shift, a registered nurse is responsible for a patient receiving continuous hydration via a peripheral venous access device with sodium chloride. The provider orders multiple new intravenous pharmacological treatments. To maintain patient safety and adhere to standard parenteral protocols, which interventions must the nurse execute? Select all that apply.
- Inspect the vascular access site for evidence of extravasation or phlebitis before delivering any pharmacological agents.Answer
- Disinfect the needleless connector using an antiseptic wipe with mechanical friction prior to syringe attachment.Answer
- CBypass compatibility checks when administering secondary infusions since sodium chloride acts as a universal diluent.
- Halt the primary hydration fluid and irrigate the tubing with sodium chloride before and after giving an incompatible intravenous push drug.Answer
- EManage the flow rate of a newly ordered intravenous potassium chloride solution manually via a roller clamp to prevent mechanical interruptions.
Answer
The correct practices are to inspect the vascular access site, disinfect the needleless connector with friction, and halt/flush the line when giving incompatible medications.
The correct interventions directly support evidence-based parenteral therapy protocols. Routine site inspection prevents complications such as infiltration; vigorous mechanical friction applied to the needleless connector prevents bloodstream infections; and isolating incompatible medications using normal saline flushes prevents dangerous intravascular precipitation.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe Intravenous Medication Administration Principles