bax25

I agree with you poppy. I work at a larger hosp. in Memphis, TN and our policy doesn't state that piggybacks have to be ran with fluids. I always thought that a piggyback could be ran with fluids if fluids were already hanging, but that it wasn't necessary esp. because so many patients have fluid issues. Plus any decent nurse would have a concept of time and wouldn't allow the pump just to beep after an IVPB was finished. That's why you flush lines before and after to prevent clotting off. I wonder if it's your hosp. policy or just your preceptor's opinion. I would check into it.

I think your right Poppy. I work at a large hospital in Memphis TN and no where in our policy does it state that piggybacks need to be run with fluids. I thought they were called piggybacks because it gave you the possiblity to run the meds if fluids are already hanging. Plus any good nurse would estimate her time and make sure she didn't leave the pump beeping once the IVPB was completed. You flush before and after a piggyback to prevent clotting unless fluids are already hanging. I would check to see if it was your hospital's policy or your preceptor's opinion. I agree to always follow hospital policy even if it's not what you were originally taught.