IV medication

Question 1

Identify advantages of the intravenous route for medication administration.

Answer 1

• Direct systemic access - rapid effect
• Immediate discontinuation possible
• Accurate titration d/t accurate absorption
• Able to use medications not suitable or not possible via other routes
• Less discomfort

Question 2

Identify disadvantages of the intravenous route for medication administration.

Answer 2

• Direct systemic action
• Rapid side effects
• Potential incompatibilities

Question 3

IV medication compatibility

Answer 3

• Compatibility information must be accessed prior to the administration of each medication that you give intravenously. You must review the following information:
  1. What solution can the medication be reconstituted in?
  2. What type and how much solution should it be mixed in?
  3. Can it be given with other medications in solution?
  4. How long will it remain stable/
  5. At what rate should it be administered?

Question 4

Identify appropriate assessment prior to, during, and post intravenous medication delivery.

Answer 4

1. Allergies
2. Doctor’s orders
3. Compatibility
4. Assess patient
5. Equipment needed

Question 5

Do you understand the medication’s adverse effects?

 What are the most common?

Answer 5

	- Drowsiness & anorexia
	What are the most detrimental?
		*toxic 
		*idiosyncratic 
		*allergic	
	Be prepared to intervene!
	know location of emergency equipment
	know the antidote (antidote for dimenhydrinate: PHYSOSTIG mine

Question 6

What do you do if an adverse reaction occurs?

Answer 6

 Stop the medication delivery immediately
 Assist/comfort patient as necessary
 Notify physician
 Administer emergency measures as necessary
 Monitor patient closely

Question 7

What is the rate of IV medication administration based on?

Answer 7

 therapeutic and adverse effects
 dosage
 concentration
 Adverse reactions dependent on rate

Question 8

Demonstrate accurate documentation of intravenous medication delivery.

Answer 8

• Appearance of the intravenous site before, during, and after administration
• Amount and type of fluid to which the medication is added
• Whether it is being infused by an electronic pump or by gravity
• Period of time during which the medication is infused
• Flow rate
• Amount and type of fluid for flushing the intravenous line before and after medication administration