A nurse is preparing to administer verapamil by iv bolus. This medication is commonly used to treat conditions such as hypertension, angina, and certain types of arrhythmias. The nurse’s responsibility is to ensure the medication is administered safely and effectively to the patient, while also adhering to hospital protocols and maintaining patient comfort throughout the process.
Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the muscles of the heart and blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the heart rate. The nurse must be familiar with the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of verapamil to understand how it affects the patient’s body and to monitor for any potential adverse effects.
Before administering the medication, the nurse must gather all necessary supplies and double-check the patient’s identification to ensure the correct patient is receiving the correct medication. The nurse should also review the patient’s medical history to identify any contraindications or precautions that may affect the administration of verapamil.
Once the nurse has confirmed the patient’s identity and collected all necessary information, the nurse proceeds to prepare the medication. The nurse must follow strict aseptic technique to prevent contamination and infection. This includes washing hands, wearing gloves, and using sterile equipment.
The nurse begins by checking the verapamil vial to ensure it is intact and has not been tampered with. The nurse then verifies the expiration date and lot number to ensure the medication is not outdated or compromised. The nurse proceeds to draw up the appropriate dose of verapamil into a syringe, using a calibrated needle to ensure accuracy.
Before administering the medication, the nurse must choose the appropriate vein for the intravenous (IV) bolus. The nurse should select a vein that is easily accessible, palpable, and free from any signs of infection or phlebitis. The nurse then cleans the selected site with an antiseptic solution and applies a tourniquet to improve venous access.
With the syringe in hand, the nurse gently inserts the needle into the vein and advances it to the desired depth. The nurse then aspirates to ensure the needle is in the vein and not in a vessel or tissue. Once confirmed, the nurse slowly injects the verapamil bolus, monitoring the patient for any signs of discomfort or adverse reactions.
After administering the medication, the nurse documents the time, dose, and route of administration in the patient’s medical record. The nurse also monitors the patient closely for the next few minutes to observe for any immediate effects of the medication. If the patient experiences any adverse reactions, the nurse should immediately notify the healthcare provider and provide appropriate care.
In conclusion, administering verapamil by IV bolus is a critical skill for nurses to possess. The nurse must be well-versed in the medication’s properties, patient assessment, and safe administration techniques to ensure the patient receives the best possible care. By adhering to strict protocols and maintaining a high level of attention to detail, the nurse can help improve patient outcomes and ensure a safe and effective medication experience.
