IV Fluids
What are isotonic fluids
Fluids that have the same concentration as the body's natural fluids
What is the primary way a midwife shows accountability for IV therapy?
Documentation.
Why might IV medications be preferred over other routes of medication?
Because they act quickly with a rapid therapeutic effect.
Before giving IV fluids you should inspect them for what?
Clarity, colour and absence of foreign matter.
What is hypovolaemia?
Low blood volume - as can occur from severe bleeding e.g., PPH
What must be obtained from the patient before starting IV fluids or medications?
Consent.
What must be checked on an IV medication ampoule?
The medication name, strength, amount, expiry date, and suitability for IV use.
Before administering a second IV medication, what must you always do this to the IV line?
Flush it.
What are the two most commonly used volumes for IV fluids?
500ml and 1000ml
What two things must a midwife have to be accountable in IV therapy?
A practical skill set and a sound knowledge base.
Before giving IV medications, what must midwives must check as part of the person's history?
Allergies, previous reactions to the medication, hypersensitivity.
What the first basic requirement to have before administering any IV fluid or medication?
Knowledge about the medication or fluid.
Name the two compartments that hold the body’s total fluid volume.
Intracellular and extracellular compartments.
Name three characteristics of professional documentation.
Clear, legible, and contemporaneous (timely), accurate, legal, succinct, relevant, complete
What needs to be confirmed before two iv medications/fluids can be mixed?
Compatibility.
Before administering IV therapy, the fluid bag or bottle must be checked for what?
Breaks/cracks, secure hanger, vacuum/unbroken seal, and expiry date
What is the difference between crystalloid and colloid fluids?
Crystalloids contain dissolved crystals and distribute through extracellular fluid, while colloids have larger molecules and stay in vascular space.
Name two practices can make your documentation invalid.
Making unclear alterations, using red pen, 'saving' space, backdating, documenting or charting in advance.
Name two reasons why IV medications should not be charted or administered from memory.
Patient safety and professional accountability.
Name three things that must be checked on an IV prescription before administration?
Right medication/fluid, right dose, right route, right time/date, and right person