IV THERAPY BASICS
This therapy delivers fluids, medications, electrolytes, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream.
What is IV therapy?
This is the normal serum sodium range in mEq/L.
What is 135–145 mEq/L?
This is the normal total serum calcium range in mg/dL.
What is 8.5–10.5 mg/dL?
Hypotension, tachycardia, and decreased urine output are signs of this fluid imbalance.
What is fluid volume deficit?
These three measurements are routinely monitored during TPN therapy to evaluate metabolic and nutritional status.
What are blood glucose, electrolytes, and daily weight?
This condition, commonly caused by vomiting or diarrhea, is an indication for IV fluid replacement.
What is dehydration or fluid volume deficit?
Confusion, headache, and seizures may indicate this sodium imbalance.
What is hyponatremia?
Muscle cramps, tetany, and positive Chvostek's and Trousseau's signs indicate this electrolyte imbalance.
What is hypocalcemia?
Edema, lung crackles, shortness of breath, and elevated blood pressure indicate this condition.
What is fluid volume excess?
If a patient's TPN is unexpectedly unavailable, this dextrose solution may be administered as prescribed to help prevent hypoglycemia.
What is D10, or 10% dextrose?
These two vital functions are supported by maintaining adequate circulating fluid volume.
What are blood pressure and tissue perfusion?
Muscle weakness, fatigue, and cardiac dysrhythmias are associated with this potassium imbalance.
What is hypokalemia?
Lethargy, decreased reflexes, hypotension, and respiratory depression suggest this magnesium imbalance.
What is hypermagnesemia?
These two measurements are essential for monitoring fluid balance in a patient receiving IV therapy.
What are intake and output?
This type of venous access is required for highly concentrated TPN solutions.
What is a central venous line?
A patient with three days of vomiting and diarrhea has dry mucous membranes, tachycardia, and decreased urine output. This is the likely fluid imbalance.
What is fluid volume deficit?
A patient with a potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L requires this immediate nursing response.
What is notifying the provider immediately and initiating cardiac monitoring?
A patient with hypomagnesemia and tremors is at risk for this serious neurological complication, requiring precautions.
What are seizures?
A patient receiving IV fluids develops dyspnea and crackles. This position helps improve breathing.
What is raising the head of the bed?
A patient with a low white blood cell count is at increased risk for this complication.
What is infection?
A patient receiving IV fluids develops shortness of breath, crackles, and elevated blood pressure. This complication should be suspected.
What is fluid volume excess or fluid overload?
A patient with hyperkalemia may receive this combination to shift potassium into the cells.
What is insulin and glucose?
A patient receiving magnesium develops respiratory depression and absent reflexes. These are priority interventions.
What are stopping magnesium, supporting respirations, and preparing to administer calcium gluconate as ordered?
A patient receiving IV diuretics has a blood pressure of 88/52 mm Hg. This explains why the nurse should assess the patient first.
What is possible inadequate circulation or symptomatic hypotension associated with fluid volume depletion?
A patient receiving TPN develops new crackles in the lungs. This complication is the priority concern.
What is fluid overload with risk of respiratory compromise?