A registered nurse is providing care for a client who requires multiple intravenous (IV) therapies, including continuous fluids and scheduled intermittent medications. Which of the following actions indicate that the nurse is safely administering pharmacological and parenteral therapies? Select all that apply.
- Flushing the peripheral intravenous catheter with 0.9% sodium chloride to confirm patency before administering an intravenous push medicationAnswer
- BAdministering a secondary intravenous piggyback medication into the Y-site of a continuous heparin infusion without checking a compatibility resource
- CProgramming an infusion pump for a critical weight-based medication using the client's estimated weight in pounds rather than a measured weight in kilograms
- Scrubbing the needleless connector hub of the intravenous catheter with an antiseptic wipe using friction for at least 15 seconds before accessAnswer
- EContinuing a continuous intravenous infusion when the client exhibits a newly narrowing pulse pressure and mild tachycardia, assuming these are benign findings
- Administering prescribed intravenous potassium chloride via an electronic infusion pump at a controlled rate of 10 mEq per hourAnswer
Answer
The correct actions include flushing the IV catheter to confirm patency, scrubbing the needleless hub for at least 15 seconds prior to access, and administering IV potassium chloride at a safe, controlled rate via an infusion pump.
Safe parenteral therapy requires proactive measures to prevent complications. Flushing the IV line confirms patency and prevents extravasation. Scrubbing the needleless hub with friction for 15 seconds prevents bloodstream infections. Administering potassium chloride via an infusion pump at a maximum rate of 10 mEq/hr prevents rapid infusion and subsequent fatal cardiac dysrhythmias.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe administration of parenteral therapies requires strict adherence to infection control (scrubbing the hub), continuous monitoring for adverse reactions, accurate dosage calculations based on measured kilograms, and verification of drug compatibility.