IV fluid attachment

Question 1

How do you prepare in order to set up infusions?

Answer 1

Gather equipment: fluid giving set, bowel for running fluid into, infusion pump, drip stand, 0.9% NaCl flush, gloves, alcohol swabs, 2nd person to check fluids/prescription
Wash hands
introduce self to the patient and explain the procedure
gain consent
check pt wristband and confirm details on prescription chart
check for allergies
re-check the fluid is the same - type and volume inc - as prescribed
check if any additives prescribed e.g. KCl - fluids with added K are pre-prepared but check the amount of KCl is correct (usually 20 or 40 mmol)
check bag is in date, packaging is undamaged and fluid is clear
Check giving set packaging is undamaged and in date

Question 2

How do you prepare the bag for infusions?

Answer 2

put on gloves and remove bag from outer packaging
remove giving set from outer packaging and close roller valve
remove cap from fluid bad - usually this requires a twisting action, and insert spike of giving set into the bag- maintaining asepsis
hang fluid bag on drip stand, above the level of the patients heart
squeeze giving set chamber until half filled
prime the line by slowly opening the roller to allow fluid to run through the giving set into the bowl –>
close the valve when the line is full and check there are no bubbles in the line

Question 3

How do you attach the bag to the cannula port?

Answer 3

• Prepare the cannula port by cleaning with alcohol wipe and allow to dry
• Flush port with normal NaCl and check patient doesnt experience any discomfort during the procedure
• Connect line to connector on cannula and open to check its flowing
• Set correct drip rate

Question 4

How do you finish setting up an infusion?

Answer 4

dispose of equipment in clinical waste
remove gloves and wash hands
document the procedure in the notes, including:
–>date, time, batch number, signature
advise patient to report any concerns
and advise nursing colleagues the procedure has been carried out