DOSAGE CALC (TERMINOLOGY) PT.2

bigger-de la soul

reconstitute

adding a diluent to a vial of powder medication to turn it to a liquid shortly before administration to ensure the med is stable

phlebitis

inflammation of a vein which can be caused by leaking of IV fluids. can also be caused by inserting an IV catheter in an area of flexion, using a IV catheter that is too large, inadequately stabilizing the catheter after insertion, rapid infusion rates, or a break in asepsis during insertion. if present, stop infusion immediately and remove catheter; new catheter will be inserted at a different site if still needed. apply warm or cool compress to area.

infiltration

leaking of fluid from the vein into the subcutaneous space. s/s include discoloration, swelling, and pain. stop IV immediately and remove cannula from vein to treat. elevate affected extremity and apply warm or cold compress.

extravasation

condition in which tissue-damaging intravenous medication (vesicants) enters tissues. s/s can initially be the same as infiltration, but then blistering of the skin, tissue necrosis, and ulceration can occur. treatment varies depending on which vesicant medication leaked into the tissues.

speed shock

a systemic reaction that occurs when an IV medication is administered too rapidly, causing blood levels of the medication to rise to possibly toxic levels. s/s include chest pain or discomfort, lightheadedness, palpitations, and tachycardia, with additional s/s being possible depending on the effects of the med administered. can progress to shock and cardiac arrest. if present, stop administering the medication, change the IV fluid to an isotonic solution, notify the provider, treat the effects, and carefully monitor vital signs

fluid overload

can occur if the rate of administration of IV fluid is faster than the client can tolerate. if suspected, slow the rate of the infusion, raise the head of the bed, and administer oxygen as prescribed. anticipate prescription for a diuretic. s/s include SOB, crackles in lungs, JVD, and extremity edema.

IV catheter embolism

occurs when part of an IV catheter breaks off in a vein. usually due to catheter damage during insertion, or too much force when flushing the catheter or administering a medication. embolism can travel to the heart, lungs, or elsewhere in the body, and the consequences for the client can be serious. s/s depend on where catheter fragment lodges. if suspected, remove catheter and inspect it for damage. apply tourniquet above IV site if broken piece can be palpated. anticipate obtaining an x-ray.

isotonic

similar in composition to body fluids and are used to maintain or increase volume in the vascular system. commonly 0.9% NaCl/normal saline and lactated ringers. normal saline is often used to dilute IV meds and when administering blood products. LR is used to treat acidosis.

hypotonic

less concentrated than blood and other body fluids, moves water into cells. treats fluid and electrolyte imbalances such as hypernatremia. commonly 0.45 NaCl aka ½ normal saline.

hypertonic

more concentrated than body fluids, pulls fluid from cells into veins. used to treat fluid overload as seen in heart or renal failure. commonly 3%NaCl.