The nurse administers an IV vesicant chemotherapeutic agent to a patient. Which action is most important for the nurse to take?
a. Infuse the medication over a short period of time.
b. Stop the infusion if swelling is observed at the site.
c. Administer the chemotherapy through a small-bore catheter.
d. Hold the medication unless a central venous line is available.
ANS: B
Swelling at the site may indicate extravasation, and the IV should be stopped immediately. The medication generally should be given slowly to avoid irritation of the vein. The size of the catheter is not as important as administration of vesicants into a running IV line to allow dilution of the chemotherapeutic drug. These medications can be given through peripheral lines, although central vascular access devices (CVADs) are preferred.
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