1. Dosage refers to the amount of a medication or substance that is prescribed to be taken at a given time. It is usually measured in milligrams (mg), micrograms (mcg), or other units of measurement. Dose, on the other hand, refers to a specific amount of medication or substance that is actually administered or taken by an individual.
2. The preparation of contrast media for administration depends on the specific type of contrast being used. Generally, contrast media are prepared by mixing the contrast agent (such as iodine-based or gadolinium-based compounds) with a suitable vehicle or carrier solution. This mixture is then sterilized and packaged in vials or bottles for administration. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines while preparing contrast media to ensure its safety and efficacy.
3. Intravenous therapy involves the administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a patient's vein. It is a common method used in healthcare settings to deliver substances directly into the bloodstream.
4. The purposes of intravenous therapy include:
- Replenishing fluid and electrolyte imbalances: Intravenous fluids can be used to restore hydration and correct electrolyte imbalances in patients who are unable to consume fluids orally.
- Administering medications: Intravenous administration allows for rapid delivery of medications directly into the bloodstream, ensuring quick and reliable effects.
- Providing nutrition: Intravenous therapy can be used to deliver specialized nutritional solutions to patients who cannot consume food orally or have specific nutritional requirements.
- Blood transfusion: Intravenous therapy is commonly used for the administration of blood or blood products during transfusions.
5. The two types of intravenous therapy are:
- Bolus or push: In this type, medications or fluids are given in a single, concentrated dose directly into the vein using a syringe or infusion pump. It is usually administered over a short period of time.
- Infusion or drip: In this type, medications or fluids are given continuously or intermittently over a longer period of time using an infusion pump or gravity flow. It allows for a more controlled and sustained delivery of substances.
6. Intravenous infusion methods include:
- Gravity infusion: This involves using a fluid bag and allowing it to hang higher than the patient's vein, allowing gravity to control the flow rate.
- Infusion pump: An infusion pump is a device that delivers fluids or medications at a precise and controlled rate. It is commonly used to administer intravenous medications or fluids over an extended period.
7. The advantages of giving medications through intravenous administration include:
- Rapid onset of action: Intravenous administration allows for the rapid delivery of medications directly into the bloodstream, resulting in a quicker onset of action compared to other routes.
- Accurate dosing: Intravenous administration ensures accurate dosing as the medication or fluid is directly delivered into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system.
- Control over the administration: Healthcare professionals have control over the rate and amount of medication or fluid administered, allowing for precise adjustment based on the patient's needs.
- Immediate availability: In emergency situations, intravenous administration provides immediate access to deliver life-saving medications or fluids.
8. Different types of intravenous fluids include:
- Crystalloids: These are fluids that contain water, electrolytes, and small molecules that can pass through cell membranes. They are further categorized into isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic solutions.
- Colloids: These are fluids that contain larger molecules, such as proteins or starches, which exert oncotic pressure and help expand the blood volume.
- Blood and blood products: These include whole blood, packed red blood cells, platelets, and plasma. They are used for transfusions to replace blood components.
- Parenteral nutrition solutions: These are specialized solutions that provide a balanced mix of nutrients to patients who cannot consume food orally or have specific nutritional requirements.
9. Categories of crystalloids include:
- Isotonic solutions: These have the same osmolarity as blood and are used to replace extracellular fluid losses, maintain hydration, and expand vascular volume. Examples include normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) and lactated Ringer's solution.
- Hypotonic solutions: These have a lower osmolarity than blood and are used to hydrate cells and replace intracellular fluid losses. Examples include 0.45% sodium chloride.
- Hypertonic solutions: These have a higher osmolarity than blood and are used to expand intravascular volume and draw fluid out of cells. Examples include 3% saline and 5% dextrose in 0.9% saline.
10. The administration of contrast media depends on the specific type and route of administration. Common methods include:
- Intravenous contrast: Contrast media can be administered through a peripheral intravenous line or a central venous catheter. The contrast is slowly injected into the vein while monitoring the patient for any adverse reactions.
- Oral contrast: For certain imaging studies, contrast media can be administered orally, such as with barium sulfate or iodinated contrast agents. These are usually in the form of drinks or solutions that the patient ingests before the procedure.
- Rectal contrast: In some cases, contrast media can be administered rectally, such as in barium enemas or rectal CT scans. This involves the patient receiving a rectal enema or suppository containing the contrast media.
It is important to follow specific instructions provided by the healthcare professional or radiologist regarding the preparation and administration of contrast media to ensure optimal imaging results and patient safety.
