Checking a maintenance fluid prescription
RN OSCE practice station
IV fluids · 2 min to read · 8 min to perform
A written station. Free to try, no sign-up.
The task
You are the RN on a hospital ward. Ben Cooper, aged 38, has a signed order for sodium chloride 0.9% 1000 mL intravenously over eight hours. The infusion has not started. Check readiness and the fluid order, calculate the pump rate and explain monitoring. Complete the supplied practice record. Speak to the patient and describe each assessment as you perform it. You have eight minutes; describe and select physical actions in this online exercise.
What this station tests
- Ben’s saline bag needs label, expiry, integrity and appearance checks against the order.
- 1000 mL over eight hours gives 125 mL/hour.
- Patency does not replace assessment of fluid suitability and balance.
- Place the bell on his accessible left side and explain site and breathing warnings.
Sources for the clinical content
- ACSQHC: Management of Peripheral Intravenous Catheters Clinical Care Standard
- NHMRC: Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare
- ACSQHC: Communicating for Safety Standard
An original practice scenario with invented patients. Not an exam question.