Setting up an infusion

Question 1

Pre introduction checks

Answer 1

Cleans hands
Checks prescription
-patient ID
-other medications, possible interactions
-allergies
-signature

Checks

• correct drug
• correct patient
• correct route
• correct dose
• correct time/frequency

Where is the anaphylaxis kit?

Question 2

Introduction

Answer 2

Introduces self to patient
Patient name and DOB
Explain procedure, gain consent
Checks drug allergies and reactions

Check that patient has appropriately sized cannula in situ that has no signs of phlebitis

Question 3

What does a qualified clinician need to do

Answer 3

Check the cannula is patent by

• scrubbing hub of cannula
• flush with sterile saline
• observe for swelling
• checking if it is pain free for the patient

Checks for

• correct drug
• correct dose and diluent
• expiry dates
• rate of infusion from IV guidelines and drug chart
• correct giving set to bag/syringe

Question 4

How would you set up an infusion after all the double checks

Answer 4

Connect giving set to bag/syringe and prime the line enduring that no air is trapped in the line

Select correct setting

• gravity feeding
• pump infusion

Ensure the infusion is infusing well without any problems and monitor the patient as specified in the IV guidelines

Question 5

What would you do for gravity feeding

What would you do for pump infusions

Answer 5

Calculates the drip rate (volume in drops/time in mins = drips per minute)

Turns pump on, inputs volume of infusion and rate to be infused and time in minutes
Use drug library on infusion pump if possible
Ensures the settings are correct before using and double checks settings with supervisor