Critical Care Intravenous Infusion Drug Handbook

Book excerpt: This practical, easy-to-use reference facilitates the administration of 39 of the most complex and common IV infusion drugs used in critical care. Section I presents at-a-glance algorithms covering the ACLS Guidelines for Adult Emergency Cardiac Care. Section II offers a "Quick Mixing Guide" for intravenous infusion drugs. And, Section III covers each of the most complex and common IV infusion drugs in detail, presenting all of the data needed for safe administration. Coverage of each drug addresses its most common uses - preparation and administration - dosages - warnings and adverse reactions - compatibility with other drug infusions - and general nursing considerations. "Drip Rate Calculation Charts" and "Dosing Charts" quickly explain how to mix and prepare drugs that are usually needed by patients on an immediate, urgent basis. Unique "Calculation Factors" for each drug greatly simplify an otherwise complicated process and substantially reduce the chance of medication errors.