Changing Fluid Container and Tubing

Changing the fluid container and tubing is a nursing procedure performed when the intravenous (IV) fluid in the container is nearly empty. The old container is replaced with a new sterile IV fluid container, and the tubing may also be changed according to hospital protocol. This ensures the continuous delivery of fluids or medications while maintaining sterility and preventing interruption of the infusion.

Why is this procedure performed?

To maintain a continuous and uninterrupted intravenous infusion.
To replace nearly empty IV fluid containers with new sterile solutions.
To prevent air from entering the IV line.
To reduce the risk of contamination and infection.
To decrease the opportunity for growth of microorganisms by removing possible media for infection.
To ensure safe and effective delivery of prescribed IV fluids or medications

Materials Needed

Correct fluid
Dressing materials if needed
Appropriate infusion set
Cotton balls with alcohol
Plaster
Syringe with needle for flushing

ASSESSMENT

Review phyician’s order for type of fluid and infusion rate
Check date of last tubing and dressing

PLANNING

Determine equipment you will need
Wash your hands
Select correct fluid container and correct tubing
Gather materials needed

IMPLEMENTATION

Explain the procedure
Check the patient’s identity, IV site and solution to be changed
Close the roller clamp or kink tubing of administration set and remove fluid container from the stand.
Remove tubing from the empty container and insert tubing to the new container observing the aseptic technique.
Regulate the flow rate based on the duration of infusion. Remove air bubbles if any
Change the IV Solution slip

EVALUATION

Evaluate using the following criteria:

Tubing and fluid container changed with no contamination
Correct IV infusion running at correct rate

DOCUMENTATION

Record information in correct location according to your hospital policy