Which nursing intervention is most important in ensuring safe infusion of a medication delivered by IV piggyback through a saline lock?

Flushing the saline lock with sodium chloride solution before initiating the infusion is crucial because it ensures that the catheter is patent and free from any blockages. This step also helps to confirm the proper placement of the IV access and ensures that the medication will be delivered effectively and through the appropriate pathway. By clearing the line and ensuring that the saline lock is functioning properly, the risk of complications such as infiltration or phlebitis can be minimized, which is vital for maintaining patient safety during the administration of intravenous medications.

While monitoring the patient for adverse reactions is an essential aspect of care, ensuring that the line is clear and functional takes precedence at the start of the infusion to avoid any immediate complications from improper access or delivery. Administering a bolus of normal saline may be warranted in some situations but is not a foundational step for every IV piggyback infusion. Likewise, adjusting the infusion rate based on patient response is important, but it occurs after the medication has started, highlighting that line patency is a fundamental prerequisite for safe medication delivery.