Infusion-Related Pharmacology Flashcards

What is the primary concern when administering vancomycin IV too rapidly?

Answer: Red man syndrome

Rapid vancomycin infusion causes histamine release resulting in red man syndrome, characterized by flushing, erythema, and hypotension of the upper body.

Which drug-drug interaction is MOST dangerous when co-administering IV heparin and nitroglycerin?

Answer: Decreased heparin efficacy requiring higher doses

IV nitroglycerin can decrease heparin's anticoagulant effect, requiring increased heparin doses that may cause bleeding complications when nitroglycerin is discontinued.

What is the correct method for calculating an IV drug infusion rate when given mg/kg/min dosing?

Answer: Multiply the dose by patient weight, divide by concentration, multiply by 60

For weight-based infusion calculations: (dose in mg/kg/min multiplied by patient weight in kg divided by drug concentration in mg/mL) multiplied by 60 equals infusion rate in mL/hr.

Which IV medication requires protection from light during infusion?

Answer: Nitroprusside

Nitroprusside is highly photosensitive and must be protected from light during preparation and infusion to prevent degradation to cyanide.

What is the pharmacological rationale for using a 0.22-micron in-line filter during IV infusion?

Answer: To remove particulate matter, microorganisms, and endotoxins

A 0.22-micron filter removes particulate matter, bacteria, fungi, and endotoxins from the infusate, providing an additional safety barrier against contamination.

A patient receiving IV phenytoin develops burning at the peripheral IV site with a pH of the infusate measured at 12. What action should the nurse take?

Answer: Stop the infusion, assess for extravasation, and consider central line placement for continuation

Phenytoin has a pH of approximately 12, making it highly alkaline and irritating to peripheral veins. Burning suggests chemical phlebitis or extravasation requiring IV discontinuation.