Are these errors more prevalent now or are we seeing more reports about their occurrence? Click here to follow the link to a story about another one that began in the pharmacy.
I am also seeing more legal cases involving adverse drug reactions. Lawsuits are not limited to catheter related complications like extravasation. As the nurse administering any medication, it is our responsibility to know the medication – indications, contraindications, how it should be diluted, rates of infusion or injection, compatibility, stability, side effects, and adverse drug reactions. It is our responsibility to monitor the patient’s response to the medication and document it. This applies to all medications in all healthcare settings. Knowing the technical aspects of how to administer an I.V. medication is required but nursing responsibility does not stop there. It is the nurse’s job to know what adverse reactions can happen, be able to recognize them, communicate all data to the other professionals involved in the patient’s care, and provide the necessary follow up care. This brings up the question of what drug references are available to you. In my opinion, the only drug reference that provides all necessary information about I.V. medications is Intravenous Medications by Gahart and Nazareno, published annually by Mosby. Click here to learn more about this valuable resource. . If this is not available to you in your workplace, it is well worth your personal investment in this book. |
Author: Lynn HadawayLynn Hadaway is an international thought leader in infusion therapy and vascular access, having been in this practice for more than 40 years. Her experience comes from hospital-based infusion teams, device manufacturers, and continuing education services. Her journal and textbook publications are extensive. She also maintains board certification in infusion nursing (CRNI) and nursing professional development (RN-BC). Categories
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May 2019
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