hypoglycemia - D10W, peripheral line

[friendlylark]

Hello! I am a nurse with just under 2 years of experience in the ER. Yesterday, I had a patient with a hypoglycemic episode. He kept crashing over and over - and I kept giving him D50 IV. Initially, we had his fluids running at D5 .45NS @ 200, but the admitting physician changed it to D10W @ 50. I did not realize that D10W must not go through a peripheral line.

What is the reasoning that D10W cannot go through a peripheral line?

Thank you for any discussion. Sincerely, Anne Marie in Oregon

[Altra, BSN, RN]

Venous sclerosis is a risk consideration with concentrations of dextrose 10% or higher - thus the recommendation for administration through a central line whenever possible in an acute care setting.

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

it can go peripheral, depending on policy, but it is a viscous infusion leading to phlebitis. It is highly recommended to be given through a PICC line