Question

The nursing is preparing to administer phenytoin IV push to a client. The client has dextrose 5% in water infusing continuously. Which action is appropriate?

Pinch the line above the infusion port during the administration

Hold the medication and collaborate with the provider prior to administration

Stop the infusion and flush the port with normal saline prior to administration

Ask the pharmacy to mix the medication into an IV piggyback (IVPB) infusion

Answer 1

To administer phenytoin IV push to a client with dextrose 5% in water infusing continuously, it is important to stop the infusion and flush the port with normal saline prior to administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

When administering phenytoin IV push to a client who has dextrose 5% in water infusing continuously, it is important to stop the infusion and flush the port with normal saline prior to administration. This is done to prevent any interaction between phenytoin and dextrose, as dextrose can cause precipitation of the medication. Pinching the line above the infusion port or holding the medication and collaborating with the provider may not be sufficient to ensure the safe administration of the medication.