IV Magnesium in the home?

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Hello. I'm with a new agency and former med/surg, but this is the first time I've been sent to infuse someone with IV Magnesium in the home 4GM/100ML over 4 hours. My understanding is that it is not to be given in the home setting, yet I see old posts where this dosage isn't an issue. I am having trouble reaching the Dr(s) even for lab orders, which they never sent with referral order. Not sure if I'm overly worried, or if I seriously need to refuse visits to this patient. I'm hearing intake dept. at this agency is known to take all sorts of patient's they shouldn't for a variety of reasons.

Thank you for your nursly words of wisdom.

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Specializes in Travel, Home Health, Med-Surg.

I don't think it is uncommon to give Mag in the home setting. I would check you facility (written) p/p and f/u with the pharmacist, and your nursing director with any questions/concerns. I would also want to know why the pt is recieving the Mag (cancer pt, just for "vitamen therapy" etc), and make sure you know what to assess for and how to handle any SE/adv rx. I havent worked HH for awhile but have heard that Mag is given. I have given it many times in the hospital and never had a pt with a bad rx. Just make sure you have a current Mg level to avoid toxicity.

Congrats on the new job, good luck!!

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Thank you! Comforted because that’s pretty much what I did. First called to clarify with pharmacist, then to directors/clinical super, then got the “approved infusions” list, then put in notes who I spoke with at which drs office to ask for labs, which they finally faxed order back for so I could draw them.

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Specializes in Travel, Home Health, Med-Surg.

Sounds like you got this!!

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