IV Medication Administration

VOCABULARY flashcards covering key concepts related to IV medication administration from the notes.

IV access

Establishing an intravenous line to deliver medications and fluids directly into a vein.

Seven rights of medication administration

A safety checklist ensuring the correct patient, drug, dose, time, route, reason/validation, and documentation (with consideration of the patient’s right to refuse).

Vial

A sealed container holding a drug from which medication is drawn into a syringe.

Blunt needle

A blunt-tipped needle used to withdraw medication from a vial to reduce needle-stick injuries.

Alcohol swab

A sterile prep used to clean the vial stopper and injection site to prevent contamination.

Pre-flush

A saline flush given before medication to ensure IV line patency and clear the line.

Post-flush

A saline flush given after medication to flush residual drug from the line and maintain patency.

Syringe size and accuracy

Choosing an appropriately sized syringe to precisely measure and draw the dose; use the smallest syringe that fits the dose.

Air bubble removal

Technique to remove air bubbles from the syringe by tapping, aspirating, and expelling before administration.

Luer lock connector

A twist-lock connection between syringe and IV tubing to prevent accidental disconnection.

Cannula (color-coded)

The IV catheter/tubing; color codes (blue/pink/yellow/gray) denote different sizes.

Saline lock

A saline-filled IV cap that can be flushed to keep the line patent when not actively infusing.

Three checks

Verification steps at three points (computer/Pyxis, bedside, and before administration) to confirm patient and medication.

Insertion site assessment and patency

Examining the IV insertion site for patency and signs of complications; ensure there are no kinks in the tubing.

Vent (vial vent)

An opening on the vial to allow air in, preventing vacuum and facilitating drawing up medication.

Thrombus prevention through flushing

Flushing the vein with solution before and after therapy to prevent clot formation.

Pyxis

Automated medication dispensing system used to retrieve patient medications.

Push rate (two-minute push)

Administering the medication slowly, typically over about two minutes, to ensure proper delivery.

I&O and weight considerations

Fluids given count toward intake; patient weight affects dosing and management (e.g., in heart failure).