IVPB Medication Administration for Peptic Ulcer Disease Patients: Calculating the Correct Infusion Rate
Accurate medication administration is a crucial aspect of patient care, particularly for individuals with conditions like peptic ulcer disease (PUD). In this article, we will discuss how a nurse can calculate and set the correct infusion rate for an intravenous piggyback (IVPB) of ranitidine (Zantac) to a 60-year-old male patient admitted to the hospital with PUD. The IVPB is to be administered over 30 minutes, and the IV tubing has a drip factor of 15.
Understanding Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)
Peptic ulcer disease is a condition characterized by the development of painful sores or ulcers in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus. These ulcers can cause discomfort, pain, and complications if not managed properly. Medications like ranitidine (Zantac) are often prescribed to reduce stomach acid and alleviate symptoms.
Administering Intravenous Piggyback (IVPB) Medication
When administering IVPB medication, it is essential to calculate the correct infusion rate to ensure the patient receives the medication as prescribed. In this case, the healthcare provider has ordered 50 mg of ranitidine in 50 mL of D5W (dextrose 5% in water) to be administered over 30 minutes.
To determine the drops per minute (DPM) that the nurse should set on the IV infusion controller to administer the IVPB correctly, follow these steps:
Step 1: Calculate the Total Drops
Start by calculating the total number of drops needed for the entire 30-minute infusion. To do this, multiply the drip factor (given as 15) by the total volume to be infused (50 mL).
Total drops = Drip factor × Total volume to be infused
Total drops = 15 drops/mL × 50 mL
Total drops = 750 drops
Step 2: Determine the Duration of Infusion
The healthcare provider has ordered the IVPB to be administered over 30 minutes. Convert this time to minutes if it is given in hours (1 hour = 60 minutes).
Duration of infusion = 30 minutes
Step 3: Calculate Drops per Minute
To calculate the DPM, divide the total number of drops by the duration of the infusion in minutes.
Drops per minute = Total drops / Duration of infusion
Drops per minute = 750 drops / 30 minutes
Drops per minute = 25 drops/minute
The nurse should set the IV infusion controller to deliver 25 drops per minute to administer the IVPB of ranitidine (Zantac) correctly over the prescribed 30-minute period.
Ensuring Patient Safety and Comfort
Maintaining patient safety and comfort during IVPB medication administration is of utmost importance. The nurse should:
- Double-check the medication order and the IVPB solution to confirm accuracy.
- Verify that the IV tubing is securely connected and free from any kinks or obstructions.
- Monitor the patient during the infusion for any adverse reactions or discomfort.
- Educate the patient on what to expect during the procedure and how to call for assistance if needed.
- Ensure that the patient’s IV site is well-maintained and free from signs of infection or infiltration.
Conclusion
Calculating and setting the correct infusion rate for an IVPB medication like ranitidine (Zantac) is a crucial nursing skill, particularly when treating conditions like peptic ulcer disease. In this case, the nurse should set the IV infusion controller to deliver 25 drops per minute to administer the IVPB correctly over the prescribed 30-minute duration. Patient safety, comfort, and education are essential aspects of the process, ensuring that the patient receives the medication as prescribed while experiencing minimal discomfort or side effects.