ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

What is the term for a quantity of medication introduced intravenously over a period of time?

1. An IV push

2. An infusion

3. A bolus

4. A hypodermic

The correct answer is: An infusion

The term for a quantity of medication introduced intravenously over a specified period of time is referred to as an infusion. An infusion involves the continuous delivery of medication into the bloodstream, allowing for a controlled and consistent therapeutic effect. This method is typically used for medications that need to be administered slowly and steadily, ensuring that the patient receives the appropriate dosage over the duration of the infusion. Infusions can be given using various techniques, such as gravity drip or with an infusion pump, to regulate the rate at which the medication is delivered. This is particularly important in clinical settings where precise dosing is critical for effectiveness and patient safety. Other terms provided, such as IV push or bolus, refer to methods of administering medication more rapidly or in larger doses at once rather than over an extended time, which differentiates them from the continuous approach of an infusion. A hypodermic generally refers to the type of syringe used for injections and is not a method of medication delivery itself.