A nurse is preparing to administer intravenous Phenytoin to a patient. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure proper administration?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Flush the IV line with normal saline before and after administering phenytoin: Phenytoin is incompatible with dextrose and many other IV solutions. Normal saline is the only recommended diluent, and flushing before and after administration prevents precipitation and line blockage, ensuring safe delivery of the drug. B. Flush the IV line with dextrose solution before and after giving phenytoin: Phenytoin precipitates in dextrose-containing solutions, which can result in crystal formation, risking embolism or phlebitis. Using dextrose can lead to serious IV complications and must be avoided. C. Mix phenytoin with lactated Ringer's solution for infusion: Phenytoin is not compatible with lactated Ringer’s due to the calcium content, which increases the risk of precipitation. It should only be diluted in normal saline to maintain solution stability and patient safety. D. Administer phenytoin without flushing the IV line: Skipping the flush increases the risk of drug incompatibility, precipitation, and reduced drug delivery. Flushing with normal saline is essential to maintain IV line patency and prevent complications.