What it means
Also called an IV bolus. The drug reaches the bloodstream at once and acts fast, so an error also does harm fast. Each drug has its own push rate and dilution, found in a drug reference or the facility's policy; many are pushed over 1 to 5 minutes. The short form IVP is used too, but it also stands for a kidney x-ray test.
For the nurse
Check the drug, dose, dilution, push rate and compatibility, and make sure the IV works. Flush with saline before and after, and time the push with a watch. Potassium chloride is never given by IV push.
At a glance
| Also written | intravenous push |
|---|
Related terms
potassium
A mineral in the blood that nerves and muscles, including the heart, need in order to work.
IV
Intravenous: into a vein, or the tube placed in a vein to give fluids and drugs.
infusion
The slow delivery of a fluid or drug into the body, usually into a vein, over a period of time.
bolus
A single amount of a drug or fluid given all at once or over a short time.