Administer intravenous therapy, as authorized by law.

Administration should include

  • use of appropriate equipment and supplies
  • consideration of legal aspects of therapy
  • consideration of types of solutions
  • client preparation
  • infusion rate
  • consideration of possible complications
  • client assessment
  • sequencing of nursing actions
  • application of proper techniques
  • client education. 

Process/Skill Questions:

  • What legal implications concerning intravenous therapy are relevant for a nurse in Virginia?
  • What is the rationale for use of the common types of intravenous (IV) fluids?
  • How is the client prepared for IV therapy?
  • How does one calculate IV flow rate for a gravity flow infusion and for an electronically monitored infusion?
  • What nursing actions are necessary to monitor a blood transfusion?