Intravenous infusion is an addition of drugs to any infusion container with solutions usually normal saline or dextrose. It is given in the following situation:
- If we require constant plasma concentration of the drug.
- If an administration of a more concentrated solution would be harmful so we dilute and provide via infusion.
The following are things that needs to be cared for:
- Add only one drug to any infusion container.
- Make sure the components are compatible.
- If available use read and prepared solution.
- Avoid adding drugs to blood products, mannitol or sodium bicarbonate.
- Before using the solution make sure you thoroughly shake and also check for any particulate matter.
- Maintain asepsis.
- Do not use the giving set for more than 24 hours.
- Monitor patient throughout for any reaction and also examine an infusion solution for any cloudiness, crystalline or change in colour or contamination.
- Labell the infusion container with the following information without interfering with information on manufacturer’s label:
- Name of patient
- Name and quantity of additives
- Date and time of addition
10. Do not throw away the used container immediately because it might be required for any investigation if
required.
