Aseptically Adding Drug Solution to Large Volume Parenterals (LVP) or Small Volume Parenterals (SVP)

Generally, LVP solutions are used as primary or continuous infusion solutions by administering them at a slow infusion rate. Drug additives can then be introduced directly into LVP with a syringe and needle. Drug additives can also be introduced into LVP at the Y-connection of the administration set. Drug additives are also put in minibags and used as a piggyback on the LVP.

All of these scenarios require a syringe and needle to transfer the drug additive solution into a plastic bag or administration set injection port. The needle must be at least 1/2 inch long and not less than 19 gauge to ensure that the inner diaphragm of the port will be penetrated and that the protective rubber cover will reseal.

To transfer a drug additive to a LVP or SVP container or an administration set with a needle and syringe:

1. Remove the protective covering from the injection port.
2. Assemble the needle and syringe and aseptically withdraw the necessary drug additive volume.
3. Swab the injection port with an alcohol swab.
4. Hold the injection port with one hand and insert the needle into the port with the other hand. Hold the port in such a way that the fingers are out of the way in case the needle punctures through the port. The injection port should be fully extended to minimize the chance of punctures through the port.
5. Inject the drug additive solution.
6. Remove the needle.
7. Mix and inspect the admixture.