IV push test?

[AlyRNtoBe]

Hello,

I just received my nursing orientation schedule, and I have a med test & an IV push test. We weren't allowed to push drugs during my clinicals, and this is my first nursing job. I have no idea what to expect....any ideas? Thanks!

[Reno1978, BSN, RN]

Probably related to drug calculations.

[mmulligan23]

It may also have something to do with knowing that you need to flush the line before you push a med, make sure you know the time over which to push the med (i.e. nexium is over 3 minutes), and when you flush after a med that has to be pushed over a certian time....you must flush over that time as well (i.e. a saline flush after nexium should take 3 minutes as well) otherwise you have turned the med into a bolus. I've seen nurses not do this in practice.....BUT...it's the proper procedure.

Hope this helps.

[alissajo33]

I worked on a critical care step-down unit, and when I started working there they made sure I was competent in pushing IV drugs. We were able to push numerous drugs- Lasix, Morphine, etc. They assessed if you pushed the medication over the desired length of time (typically at least one minute) and diluted it as ordered. Flushing the line prior and post medication admin. is very important- and a step some nurses overlook. Another thing, if you're going to be pushing any cardiac medications (like a beta blocker) or an anti-arrythmic, you want to ABSOLUTELY make sure you have the client hooked up to hardwire. Never, ever push any medication that could potentially change or alter the rhythm/rate without one. This is a huge liability to you and the pt.!!! If you aren't sure on the usual dosages/ amount of time to admin. a med, always double check! Hope this helps!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

at least show them you know how to reference the information. Drugs change. You cannot memorize it all. But you should know how to look it up.