[kk2000]

I would really appreciate some help! I am lookking for step by step instructions on administering antibiotics via picc line. It needs to be reconstituted, the vial with powder is attached to the bag. I had a problem doing this (reconstituting)the other day, not sure where I went wrong. Thanks in advance-

[athena55]

KK2000:
Hello there. Well, first thing I would suggest is....Maybe you could ask another RN or LPN on the floor how to get either that darn plug out or how to break that thin plastic-like tube that extends from the antibiotic to the IVPB bag. Or is it that you are working alone on the night shift? (Been there, done that, sigh)
Once you break that thin plastic-like tube you just squeeze some of the IV fluid back into the small vial of medication, shake it make sure all the med is totally dissolved, then squeeze it back into the original IV bag.
Some antibiotics have a plug that you need to wiggle-waggle out, like a stopper. Once it is out the IVPB fluid will rush in; jiggle to make sure all has been dissolved, then up-end the bag and the medication should rush in.
I am speaking for myself, but sometimes I feel like the biggest fool for asking what I think is a dumb question. But I guess the dumb question is the one you felt too silly to ask about and that could lead to untoward events for your patient/client
bye for now,
athena

[gt4everpn]

1. connect vial containing the powdered antibiotic to the IVPB of the solution.
2. Break the seal, by wiggling or twisting the connection between the vial and the IVPB solution.
3.Squeeze the IVPB solution until it dilutes the powder in the vial!
4.Turn it upside down with the vial above the IVPB, still connected to it.
5.Squeeze the IVPB solution until no more of it is contained in the vial.
6. Connect the IV tubing that will be connected to the patient to the other port on the IVPB
7. Connect to patient and your done!

[ginger58]

Some drugs aren't meant to be shaken but rolled for reconstitution.