What does "IVPB" refer to in medication administration?

The term "IVPB" refers to "Intravenous Piggyback," which is a method of intravenous medication administration. In this technique, a smaller volume of fluid containing the medication is delivered alongside a primary intravenous line. This allows for the simultaneous administration of medications without the need to start a new IV line. The piggybacked medication is connected to the primary IV line using a secondary infusion set and is typically infused into the main line at a specified rate.

This method is particularly useful for administering intermittent doses of medication that are not intended to be continuously infused. It is important in clinical practice because it allows for flexibility in medication administration and minimizes the risk of complications that could arise from multiple IV access points.

Understanding IVPB is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it ensures effective and safe medication delivery while managing patient care efficiently.