A client is receiving IV potassium. The IV pump displays an occlusion alarm. The tubing is free of occlusions, and the IV flushes easily without symptoms of infiltration. Which action should the nurse take next? A)Discard potassium and document administration of a partial dose B)Exchange the IV pump with a different one C)Insert a new IV catheter in a different location D)Remove the pump and administer medication by gravity drip

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

IV infusion pumps display an occlusion alarm when IV solution cannot be infused due to pressure in the line. Common causes of occlusion include clamped or kinked IV tubing, clotting in the IV catheter, and kinking in the IV catheter with extremity movement (eg, elbow, wrist). The nurse should assess the tubing and IV site and flush the IV catheter to check patency. In the absence of identifiable occlusion, an alarming IV pump should be exchanged for a different one (Option B). Malfunctioning equipment may harm the client and should be removed from the care area. The malfunctioning equipment is labeled as out of service and is sent for maintenance. (Option A) An IV pump alarm does not indicate that a medication is no longer needed. The nurse should replace a malfunctioning pump and restart the medication. (Option C) An IV catheter that has no symptoms of occlusion (ie, resistance to flushing) or infiltration (eg, swelling, coolness, pain) does not need to be replaced. (Option D) IV pump infusion is more accurate than gravity drip. IV pumps are required when administering high-risk IV medications (eg, heparin, insulin, potassium). IV potassium should never be administered by gravity as it may cause lethal arrhythmias if administered too quickly. Educational objective: If an IV infusion pump displays an alarm without an identifiable problem, the nurse should replace the pump. Malfunctioning equipment may harm the client and should be removed from the care area. The equipment is labeled as out of service and sent for maintenance.

A Client Is Receiving IV Potassium