IV Push tips?

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Specializes in Critical Care, Acute Dialysis.

Ok yeah seriously last minute stress. I live in one of the few states where LPN's can administer IVP meds, do it on a daily basis at work. So why am I having such an issue with this? Maybe it is the difference in tubing and syringes....not sure but I am STILL having issues with it not wanting to push smoothly when I use the stuff from the EC skills bag...it wants to come out in spurts. I have tried the twisting method but the plunger does not seem to move. Tips anyone? I'm open to anything lol:o

Kelly

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Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.

Maintain steady pressure on the plunger as you push down, and do it S=L=O=W=L=Y. The last thing you want is for the patient to experience speed shock. Slow and steady wins the race!

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Specializes in Critical Care, Acute Dialysis.

Thanks for the reply. That's the thing that is getting me I'm doing the same thing I do in everyday practice but getting different results. We use BD syringes at work and the ones that came in this kit are NIPRO that is the only thing different I can figure.

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Specializes in Psych, LTC, Acute Care.

I used the twist method. You actually twist the plunger as you push. Gave me great control!

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Remember that you can go more slowly but NOT more quickly. If it's a four minute push and you take five you'll be fine. If you take three and nine thenths you fail.

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

I didn't twist in a 360-degree circle, but I did twist the barrel side to side ... worked well for me. The syringes we have at work (BD) have never given me a problem! I don't have to twist or twirl or any of that ... shtuff. :D

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Specializes in Critical Care, Acute Dialysis.
I didn't twist in a 360-degree circle, but I did twist the barrel side to side ... worked well for me. The syringes we have at work (BD) have never given me a problem! I don't have to twist or twirl or any of that ... shtuff. :D

I seriously think it's the syringes. I pulled a BD syringe out of my work bag earlier and had absolutely no issues.....perfect smooth push. Tried again with the one that came with the skills kit and still having issues......guess I'll be up all night practicing with it seeing as how I had been practicing at work and today was the first attempt with the syringes that came in the EC kit :smackingf

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Specializes in LTC, Acute Care.

Seriously, the syringes in the skills bag were such a royal pain compared to the syringes we had during the CPNE in Racine. It may be different at your site, but they were NOTHING like the skills bag syringes in that they behaved and actually didn't require any fancy twisting. (The wound lab was also a breeze compared to my setup at home, which also included the skills bag wound.)

I would also like to take this opportunity to say that I failed the IVP lab on day 1 with not only with really great syringes, but 4 mL (yes, 4 mL!) to push in 1 minute. LOL

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The syringes on site were fine.

Watch for bubbles. I drew up a LOT of extra saline for messing-around room and when she asked if I was ready for her to look I said, "No. I have to check for bubbles." Bit me on the butt once with that, not again!

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Specializes in Critical Care, Acute Dialysis.

Ok so now that I'm here I'm going to try not to stress too much over the stupid cheap syringes that they sent in the skills kit:D I just pray that the ones they give us are better!

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Specializes in LTC, Acute Care.
Ok so now that I'm here I'm going to try not to stress too much over the stupid cheap syringes that they sent in the skills kit:D I just pray that the ones they give us are better!

If they are not better, you'll still have practiced with the crap ones and still rock it.

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