Administering IV Push Through an IV Lock with IV Extension Tubing

Administering IV Push Through an IV Lock with IV Extension Tubing

Equipment
■ Correct-size syringe for measuring medication.
■ Needleless access cannula or safety needle.
■ Antimicrobial swabs.
■ IV extension set.
■ Labels for the IV tubing and medication administration system.

Assessment
■ Check the site for redness, swelling, tenderness, and other signs of infiltration or phlebitis.
■ Perform assessments for evaluating the drug’s effectiveness, such as checking BP after administering an antihypertensive agent. Post-Procedure Reassessment
■ Assess for patient complaints of pain or discomfort at the site.

Key Points
■ Be Safe! Ensure the compatibility of the IV solution and medications.
■ Be Smart! Calculate the amount of medication to administer.
■ Be Safe! Use the correct rate of administration.
■ Determine the volume of extension tubing attached to the access port.
■ Assess the IV site and the patency of the line.
■ Determine the correct primary line port for infusion of medication.
■ Vigorously scrub all surfaces of the injection port closest to the patient with an antiseptic wipe.
■ Administer a small amount of the flush solution and monitor for ease of administration, swelling at the IV site, or patient complaint of discomfort at the site.
■ Again scrub the port.
■ Use a slow, steady injection technique to administer the medication.
■ Be Safe! If you feel resistance when flushing the line, look for a closed clamp on the catheter or tubing or clogged inline filter. Do not proceed until you are sure the catheter is correctly positioned and unobstructed.
■ Remove the medication syringe.
■ Vigorously scrub all surfaces of the injection connector for at least 15 seconds; then attach the flush syringe.
■ Use a slow, steady injection technique when flushing the line.

Documentation
■ Document related patient assessment findings, such as the appearance of the IV site and patient complaints of pain or discomfort during IV administration.
■ You will usually document on an IV flow record and/or MAR rather than in the nursing notes.
■ Chart a nursing note only if there is a problem (e.g., if the patient experiences pain when you administer the medication).

Using slow, steady injection technique through an extension set