How do you prepare an IV fluid set?

Preparing an IV Fluid Set:

Materials Needed:

- Sterile IV fluid bag (normal saline or as prescribed)

- IV administration set with drip chamber

- Intravenous tubing

- Alcohol swabs

- IV pole

Procedure:

1. Hand Hygiene:

- Perform hand hygiene and put on gloves.

2. Select IV Fluid:

- Choose the IV fluid bag based on the doctor's orders and patient's needs.

3. Prime the Drip Chamber:

- Remove the cap from the IV fluid bag and insert the spike of the IV administration set into the bag's port.

- Squeeze the drip chamber until it is about half-full of fluid.

4. Attach IV Tubing:

- Attach one end of the IV tubing to the drip chamber's outlet port and the other end to the patient's IV access device (e.g., peripheral IV line).

5. Regulate Fluid Flow:

- Open the roller clamp on the IV tubing to regulate the fluid flow. Adjust the clamp to achieve the prescribed rate of infusion.

6. Secure IV Set:

- Hang the IV fluid bag on the IV pole and ensure that the bag is positioned higher than the patient's IV access site to maintain proper flow.

7. Remove Air Bubbles:

- Gently tap the IV tubing to dislodge any air bubbles and allow them to rise to the drip chamber.

- Open the air vent (if present) at the top of the drip chamber to release any remaining air.

8. Label IV Set:

- Attach an IV label to the IV tubing, indicating the patient's name, date, and time of initiation, IV fluid type, and infusion rate.

9. Monitor and Document:

- Regularly monitor the patient's vital signs and infusion site for any signs of infiltration or adverse reactions.

- Document the initiation of IV fluids, including fluid type, rate, and any relevant observations.

Note:

The procedure may vary slightly based on the specific IV set and hospital protocol. Always follow your healthcare facility's guidelines and ensure strict adherence to aseptic techniques to prevent infections.