The changing of the intravenous fluid bag and administration sets must be done following the aseptic non-touch technique (ANTT) and as per local policy. If the correct procedure is not followed, then the child is at risk of developing sepsis or possible air embolus. Any fluids or drugs that are to be added to the intravenous fluids must be compatible.

• Prescription chart
  
• Administration set
  
• Intravenous fluid
  
• Sterile field
  
• Single patient alcohol wipe
  
• Gloves
  
• Apron

• Assemble equipment.
  
• Wash and dry hands thoroughly.
  
• Check intravenous fluid as per local policy against the prescription chart.
  
• Observe the outer wrapper, making sure it is intact.
  
• Check the fluids expiry date, colour, clarity and for the presence of any particles.
  
• Check the outer wrapper of the administration set to make sure it is intact and that it has not expired.
  
• Open administration set and close the roller clamp.
  
• Open the intravenous fluid bag and expose the port by removing the protective cover.
  
• Remove the protective cover on the administration set’s spike and using ANTT, insert into the intravenous fluid bag.
  
• Hang the intravenous fluid bag on a drip stand.
  
• Squeeze the drip chamber of the administration set until it is half-full.
  
• Slowly open the roller clamp and prime the administration set until the fluid reaches the end of the line, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This should expel the air from the line but visually inspect the line for the presence of any air. If air is present, then open the roller clamp to allow more fluid through the line, expelling any remaining air.
  
• Close the roller clamp.
  
• If using a burette, then fill approximately 30 ml of fluids into the burette and close the fluid-fill clamp before opening the roller clamp to prime the line.
  
• Insert the administration set into the appropriate infusion pump.
  
• Check the patient’s identity.
  
• When using a needleless device, e.g. Smartsite,™ decontaminate as per local policy or remove Luer Lok™.
  
• Ensure the patency of the intravenous cannula prior to connecting the intravenous infusion by flushing with 0.9% normal saline as prescribed.
  
• Connect the administration set to the intravenous cannula.
  
• Secure the administration set as required.
  
• Set the infusion rate and the other parameters as prescribed.
  
• Open the roller clamp and commence the infusion.
  
• Document all the required details, batch number, expiry date, time infusion commenced, name of first and second checker on prescription chart.
  
• Document the date and time of when the administration set was changed in the child’s care records along with the serial number of the pump being used.
  
• Remove the apron and gloves and dispose of all waste.
  
• Commence/maintain fluid balance chart.
  
• Wash and dry hands thoroughly.