Our BCMA compliance data revealed that we do not regularly scan the "Bolus from Bag" orders prior to administration (the order prompts the RN to scan the continuous infusion bag when attempting to document a given dose). Discussions with nursing have revealed that it is not always feasible to scan the bolus from bag prior to giving the dose (bolused through the smart pump as bolus from bag) due to the emergent needs of the patient. For example, a fentanyl bolus must be administered quickly and there is not time to go to the computer, scan the patient and bag, and document prior to actually given the drug. In most cases the bolus from bag is either not scanned OR is scanned after it is given.

We are contemplating turning the scanning requirement OFF for bolus from bag orders.

One benefit to keeping the scan requirement on is that even if scanning the infusion bag after the bolus is given, it could potentially help detect if the wrong drug was actually given and could lead to more timely intervention if necessary.

I am interested in what other sites do and why.