What is the significance of the IV Flow rate?
The Case: You are assigned to Mr. T, who was transferred to your unit earlier today. During report you learn that he has Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), 3+ pitting edema of the lower extremities, increasing shortness of breath, and has been demonstrating Cheyne Stokes respirations and periods of confusion. He complains of blurred vision. Vital signs are T 36.4, P 62, R 22, BP 180/102. He has received his 0900 meds. Current orders include:
| Vital Signs-q4H I & OUp in chair QID O2 @ 3L/NPLabs:Serum K+, PT, PTT, ABG(Done)Chest X-ray (Done), ECG (Done) Name: T. Age: 72 | IV D5W @ 50 ml/hrIV site: Left Forearm (LFA) # 20 g Last BM: 2 days agoFoley Code Status: Full CodeDx: CHF | Diet: Soft (no added salt-NAS) Medications: Digoxin 0.25 mg daily IV 0900 Hrs.Furosemide 40 mg IV BID 0900 and 1700 hrs. today then reassess.Docusate Sodium tab I po 0900 HSMinipress 10 mg po BID 0900 and 1700 Hrs |
Think about the case and then respond to the following questions. Your answers should fully explain the reasons for your response.
1. What is the significance of the IV Flow rate? Why is this rate chosen and what side effect issues are of concern? (1 point)
2. Utilizing the Nova Scotia College of Nurses (NSCN) website research which IV meds ordered can you (an LPN) administer within your Standards of Practice? Upon licensure as an LPN do you have the education, training and authority? (1 point)
3. Why does Mr. T have I & O ordered and an indwelling catheter? Why is this important in this clinical presentation? (1 point)
4. What complications could occur for Mr. T. in relation to having IV Therapy? Consider IV site related issues, fluid issues and which systems and organ that could be negatively affected and why. (1 point)