Ward Slang Intermediate Procedures & Orders

Push vs drip

Formal Definition

Push = IV medication given as a bolus injection. Drip = continuous IV infusion via pump.

How It's Used on the Ward

"Push the furosemide" = give it as a bolus. "Put him on a drip" = continuous infusion.

Example

""This patient is volume overloaded but hypotensive. If you push the furosemide too fast you'll crash his BP. Consider starting a drip at a lower dose instead.""

Clinical Context

Drips allow titration and steady-state levels. Push gives immediate peak levels. Vasopressors are almost always drips; furosemide can be either.

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