The purpose of flushing an IV line before and after IV medication administration is to:
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Prevent medication incompatibility and ensure delivery is correct because flushing the IV line with saline before administration clears the line of residual fluids or medications that could interact with the new medication, preventing chemical incompatibilities. Flushing after medication administration ensures the entire dose reaches the bloodstream and clears the line of any remaining medication, reducing the risk of incomplete dosing or drug interactions. This practice maintains medication efficacy and patient safety. B. Improve venous circulation is incorrect because flushing does not significantly improve blood flow. Its purpose is line maintenance and safety, not altering circulation. C. Reduce client discomfort is incorrect because flushing may cause minimal sensation, but the primary purpose is not comfort. Discomfort can occur if the flush is too rapid or if there is resistance in the line. D. Increase medication absorption is incorrect because IV medications are already delivered directly into the bloodstream, so flushing does not affect absorption. Its purpose is line maintenance, compatibility, and ensuring complete medication delivery.