Registered Nurse how-to
How to Hang an IV Piggyback Medication
Secondary (piggyback) infusions are a routine way to give intermittent IV medications such as antibiotics.
Secondary (piggyback) infusions are a routine way to give intermittent IV medications such as antibiotics. In short: verify; scan; spike, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Verify the order, check allergies and compatibility with the primary infusion and perform the medication rights.
Scan the patient’s wristband and the medication with the barcode system.
Spike the secondary bag with secondary tubing and prime it, removing air.
Clean the upper port on the primary line and connect the secondary tubing.
Hang the secondary bag higher than the primary bag (use the extension hook on the primary).
Program the pump for the secondary infusion rate and volume and start it, confirming flow.
Monitor for reactions, document the administration and remove or label tubing per policy.
Safety reminders for registered nurses
- Use barcode scanning and the rights of medication administration for every dose
- Follow standard and transmission-based precautions and wear appropriate PPE
- Use safe patient-handling equipment to prevent back injuries
- Speak up and escalate concerns through the chain of command
Key terms
NCLEX-RN · Nursing process (ADPIE) · Head-to-toe assessment · SBAR · Handoff report · Rapid response: see the full registered nurse glossary.