For many IV medications, a filter is not necessary for administration. Much depends on the precise medication being used, as well as the patient’s individual characteristics. In general, medications that are known to be “sensitive” to filtration or that may cause problems if they are not filtered include:
- Chemotherapy drugs - Highly concentrated solutions - Some antibiotics - Some blood products
If a filter is not used, there is a risk that these medications may not be properly distributed in the body or that they may cause an adverse reaction. Filters help to ensure that the medications are evenly distributed and that they do not cause any adverse reactions.
What are the risks of using a filter when administering IV medications?
When administering IV medications, the risks of using a filter are that the filter could become clogged with particulate matter, which could reduce or block the flow of medication. If the filter is not changed regularly, it could also become a breeding ground for bacteria. Additionally, if the filter is not placed properly, it could allow air bubbles to enter the IV line, which could potentially travel to the patient's lungs and cause an embolism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IV filter for?
IV filters are used to remove contaminants from intravenous (IV) products such as fluids and medications.
Should all intravenous medications be given through a filter?
There is no definitive answer, and many factors – such as the specific medications involved and the patient's overall health – must be considered when making this decision. Some intravenous medications may require a filter of a specific size, while others may be safe to be administered through any type of filter.
What is the role of in-line IV filters in pediatric heart disease?
In-line IV filters are commonly used in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease. The main purpose is the prevention of air from reaching the systemic circulation with resulting potential catastrophic effects in this patient population.
Why do some drugs need a micron filter?
Filters for intravenous (IV) medication administration are used to remove contaminants from intravenous products.
What happens when you put a filter in an IV?
A filter is inserted into an IV. The blood flowing through the IV spurts around the filter which catches clots and prevents them from moving up to the heart or lungs.
Sources
- https://pressbooks.bccampus.ca/clinicalproceduresforsaferpatientcaretrubscn/chapter/7-7-administering-iv-medication-via-minibag-secondary-line-or-continuous-infusion/
- https://opentextbc.ca/clinicalskills/chapter/6-11-administering-intravenous-medications-by-piggyback-mini-bags-intermittent-infusion-sets-and-mini-infusion-pumps/
- https://www.oncologynurseadvisor.com/home/departments/ask-a-pharmacist/function-of-a-micron-filter/
- http://blog.vetbloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Filtered-Medication-Guidelines-Table.pdf
- https://www.apsf.org/article/a-dangerous-side-of-in-line-iv-filters-when-used-for-vasoactive-infusions-in-infants/
- https://pressbooks.bccampus.ca/clinicalproceduresforsaferpatientcaretrubscn/chapter/8-5-iv-administration-equipment/
- https://allnurses.com/iv-medication-filtering-t289266/
- https://quizlet.com/307303077/chapter-26-administration-of-medication-and-intravenous-therapy-flash-cards/
- https://www.pall.com/en/medical/blog/iv-Inline-filter-for-the-new-monoclonal-antibody-therapeutics.html
- https://www.healthline.com/health/intravenous-medication-administration-what-to-know
- https://www.cdc.gov/injectionsafety/providers/provider_faqs_med-prep.html
- https://www.bd.com/documents/faq/IF_IV-In-Line-Filters_FQ_EN.pdf
- https://allnurses.com/what-meds-require-filter-t153019/
- https://medadmin.weebly.com/iv-medications.html
- https://www.rch.org.au/rchcpg/hospital_clinical_guideline_index/Filters_for_venous_access_lines_in_select_group_of_cardiac_patients/
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