Med Surg Chapter 10 Infusion Therapies

Blood Transfusion Reactions

• Prioritize stopping the transfusion if a patient experiences symptoms like headache, dyspnea, or warmth shortly after initiation.

Isotonic Solutions

• 0.9% normal saline is the standard isotonic solution for intravenous therapy.

Medication Addition to IV Fluids

• After adding medication to an IV container, rotate the bag to properly distribute the medication before labeling it.

IV Catheterization Choices

• An angiocatheter is optimal for prolonged IV therapy as it allows for extended use without risk of infiltration.

Phlebitis Documentation

• Signs like redness, warmth, swelling, and burning pain during medication administration indicate phlebitis.

IV Fluids for Increased Intracranial Pressure

• Accept D5 in 0.45% NaCl for patients with increased intracranial pressure since it is hypertonic and could help prevent cerebral edema.

Shock Management in Burns

• Patients with extensive burns (over 40% of body) and in shock require volume expanders as the initial treatment.

Delegating IV Therapy Tasks

• Unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) can be trained to report any pain or leakage from the IV site during routine care.

Electronic Infusion Pump Alarms

• In the case of a high-pressure alarm, assess the IV site and tubing for kinks or obstruction as the first action.

Test your knowledge on infusion therapies in nursing with this quiz focused on key scenarios, including blood transfusions. Understand the critical nursing actions required in case of adverse reactions. Perfect for nursing students preparing for Med Surg exams.