Skill 35
Intravenous Medications
Intermittent Infusion Sets and Mini-Infusion Pumps
One method of administering intravenous (IV) medications uses small volumes (25 to 250 mL) of compatible IV fluids infused over a desired period of time. This method reduces the risk for rapid dose infusion and provides independence for patients. Patients must have an established IV line that is kept patent either by continuous infusion or by intermittent flushes of normal saline. You can administer intermittent infusion of medication with any of the following methods: piggyback, volume-control administration (Volutrol, Buretrol, or Pediatrol), or mini-infusion pump.
Delegation Considerations
The skill of administering IV medications by piggyback, intermittent infusion sets, and mini-infusion pumps cannot be delegated to nursing assistive personnel (NAP). The nurse directs the NAP about:
▪ Potential medication side effects and to report their occurrence to the nurse.
▪ Reporting any patient complaint of moisture or discomfort around the IV insertion site.
▪ Reporting any change in the patient’s condition or vital signs to the nurse.
