Question

A client with an infection is receiving intravenous antibiotic therapy. The client has an intermittent infusion device in place. The nurse flushes the device with normal saline solution before administering the antibiotic based on which rationale?

Answer 1

The nurse flushes the intermittent infusion device with normal saline before administering antibiotics to clear any obstructions, maintain IV line patency, prevent clot formation, and ensure that no residual medication interferes with the new infusion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse flushes the intermittent infusion device with normal saline solution before administering the antibiotic to ensure that the line is clear of any obstructions, which could prevent the antibiotic from being administered properly. It also helps to maintain the patency of the intravenous (IV) access and reduces the risk of clot formation in the catheter. Moreover, flushing the catheter with saline ensures that any residual medication from previous infusions is cleared from the line, preventing medications from mixing and possibly causing a chemical reaction or precipitation.

Normal saline is often used because it is an isotonic solution, which means it has the same osmolarity as blood. This is important because it will not cause harm to the veins and can help maintain vascular integrity, reducing the risk of causing phlebitis or infiltrations. Therefore, normal saline is used as a flush before antibiotics to ensure safe and effective IV drug administration.