IVPB Question

New nurse. I am on a renal unit.

I was in an isolation room. Patient was not on a drip, just needed ATB. My nurse for orientation... leaves a lot to be desired. My first job as an RN and, after the second day she basically leaves me alone. When I ask questions she basically dismisses them, or gives answers that are not clear. I do know there have been a few times when she simply does not know the answer, e.g., Lasix a K-wasting diuretic, but... I digress.

Anyway

I was in a contact isolation room, spiked the ATB with primary tubing. I realized what I did after I had line primed, but I figured, "he's only getting this ATB, so I can use this tubing. I can flush the rest through to ensure he gets the full dose, discard tubing to ensure sterility."

I checked with my trainer and she said "no, can't be done like that." I said I don't understand why not, she looked at me like I am a moron and said "that's the point of IVPB; the ED can infuse ATB like that, but not us."

I had some lag time before I could take my NCLEX, i.e., it's been a while since I graduated (May) took my NCLEX (October), and started work (January). My understanding is that IVPB is used when infusions are already under way. The secondary bag is hung, primary dropped. So I still don't understand why I could not have done that. I used guardrails on the pump.

Could anyone educate, please and thanks. I'll review IVs when I have time (SO much to review), but would appreciate extra input and different explanations.