Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

What device should be used for all vasoactive drugs administered as a continuous infusion?

1. Single-use syringe

2. Intravenous (IV) infusion pump

3. Gravity drip system

4. Oral medication dispenser

The correct answer is: Intravenous (IV) infusion pump

The use of an intravenous (IV) infusion pump for administering all vasoactive drugs as a continuous infusion is critical for ensuring accurate delivery of medication. IV infusion pumps are designed to control the rate of medication delivery precisely, which is essential for vasoactive drugs that have narrow therapeutic windows. These drugs can significantly affect blood pressure and heart function, so maintaining the correct dosage is paramount. Unlike other methods, such as single-use syringes or gravity drip systems, an IV infusion pump allows for continuous monitoring and adjustment of infusion rates. This capability is especially important in pediatric patients, where fluctuations in drug levels can lead to adverse effects or therapeutic failures. Furthermore, an IV infusion pump can also integrate safety features like dose error reduction systems, which help prevent administration errors. Using oral medication dispensers is inappropriate for continuous infusion of vasoactive drugs as they are not intended for such use and would fail to provide the necessary control over dosing. Therefore, the IV infusion pump is the preferred and safest choice for administering vasoactive medications continuously.