II Glossary

Ampules: Glass containers in 1 mL to 10 mL sizes that hold a single dose of medication in liquid form.

Blunt needles: Needleless access devices.

Extravasation: Occurs when medication is administered via an IV site and leaks into surrounding tissues and results in tissue injury such as blisters, redness, or even necrosis.

First-pass effect: The action that occurs when a medication must be first metabolized or broken down prior to entering the blood.

Intravenous push (IV push): Process of introducing a medication or fluid substance directly into the bloodstream via the venous system.

IV lock: An IV cannula that has been inserted into a vein and saline locked or clamped.

Phlebitis: Occurs when there is irritation of the inside of the vessel wall in response to a triggering agent such as medication or dilution solution.

Precipitate: Formation of small crystals as the incompatible substances come into contact with one another.

Prefilled syringe: Syringes that contain prefilled volumes of medication within the device.

Speed shock: An adverse systemic reaction when a foreign substance is introduced into the bloodstream.

Vial: A single- or multi-dose plastic container with a rubber seal and covered by a metal or plastic cap.