IV Therapy, Blood Administration, and Safe Infusion Practices | Chapter 12 from Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination (7th Edition)

IV Therapy, Blood Administration, and Safe Infusion Practices | Chapter 12 from Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination (7th Edition)

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Welcome to Chapter 12 of the Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination (7th Edition) by Linda Anne Silvestri and Angela E. Silvestri. This chapter delivers a detailed guide to intravenous (IV) therapy and blood administration—core skills for safe, effective client care and NCLEX-PN success. You’ll learn essential protocols, complication prevention, and emergency actions to keep your clients safe during infusion and transfusion.

Watch the video summary below, and subscribe to Last Minute Lecture for more NCLEX-PN chapter breakdowns and nursing safety tips:

IV Therapy: Indications, Devices, and Safety Protocols

  • Purpose of IV Therapy: Rapid access for fluids, medications, and blood products.
  • IV Devices: Understand macrodrip and microdrip tubing, drip chambers, infusion pumps, filters, and needleless systems.
  • Peripheral IV Insertion: Site selection, insertion technique, priming tubing, site rotation, and infection prevention.
  • Central Venous Catheters: Types include PICC, tunneled, and implantable ports—each with unique care protocols and flushing techniques.

Monitor for latex allergies and select appropriate devices to minimize reactions.

Prevention and Management of IV Complications

  • Common Complications: Infiltration, phlebitis, hematoma, infection, catheter embolism, and air embolism.
  • Recognize early signs (swelling, pain, redness) and know the priority nursing interventions for each.
  • Fluid Overload: Assess for edema, lung crackles, and hypertension—adjust fluid rate as needed.

Blood Administration: Procedures and Safety

  • Types of Blood Products: PRBCs, platelets, fresh frozen plasma (FFP).
  • ABO and Rh Compatibility: Universal donor (O negative) and recipient (AB positive) principles, crossmatching, and documentation.
  • Blood Administration Steps: Verify orders, double-check client ID and compatibility, prime tubing with normal saline, and monitor vital signs throughout.
  • Infusion Time and Rate: PRBCs typically infused within 2–4 hours; never add medications to blood bags.

Transfusion Reactions: Signs and Emergency Actions

  • Monitor for chills, fever, rash, back pain, dyspnea, and hypotension during transfusion.
  • If a reaction occurs: Stop the transfusion immediately, maintain IV access with normal saline, notify the provider, monitor vitals, and send blood and tubing to the lab for analysis.
  • Document thoroughly and provide emotional support to the client.

Home Care and Central Line Maintenance

  • Teach clients and caregivers sterile technique for central line dressing changes and flushing protocols.
  • Monitor for signs of infection and educate about emergency procedures for complications.
  • Follow all institutional and manufacturer protocols for device care and infusion safety.

Nursing Documentation and Client Education

  • Record all aspects of IV and blood administration, including start/stop times, assessments, interventions, and client responses.
  • Provide thorough education on infusion procedures, signs of complications, and when to call for help.

Want more clinical examples and safety tips? Watch the video above and subscribe to Last Minute Lecture for the full NCLEX-PN chapter series!

Conclusion: Safe, Effective IV and Blood Administration

Chapter 12 of Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination (7th Edition) gives you the knowledge and step-by-step skills to manage IV therapy and blood transfusions safely. By following strict protocols, monitoring for complications, and providing excellent client education, you’ll protect patients and ensure the highest standards of nursing care—both on the exam and in clinical practice.

If you found this review useful, subscribe to Last Minute Lecture for more NCLEX-PN chapter reviews and best-practice nursing resources.

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Explore the full YouTube playlist for Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination (7th Edition) here: Complete Playlist

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