Knowledge of Nurses in the Preparation and Administration of Intravenous Medications

Life threatening errors have been associated with intravenous (IV) medications. This study was conducted in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre to determine knowledge levels of nurses with regards to preparation and administration of IV medications. Survey respondents (n=246) comprised head nurses (n=4) and staff nurses (n=242). Mean correct scores for knowledge (maximum score; 16) of head nurses and staff nurses were 12.5 ± SD 2.1 and 10.3 ± SD 2.6 respectively indicating average knowledge acumen. Less than 50% of respondents obtained correct answers for calculation and dosing of IV medications. Training programmes for nurses should give greater emphasis on these skills.