Management of Glucagon Administration

Description

• White powder for reconstitution 1 mg/vial in a glass syringe prefilled with 1ml sterile water.
• Reconstituted solution is clear and colourless. Do not use if fibres or solid particles are present.

• IV, IM or subcutaneous injection glucagon is charted on the stat page of the prescription chart in mcg/dose.

Charted on fluid chart giving:

• rate in ml/hour
• dose in mg/day

Also charted on drug chart under continuous infusions giving:

• amount of drug to be added
• base fluid, type and volume
• mg/ml

Administration

Continuous Infusions

1. Reconstitute with water provided to 1mg/ml.
2. Add 1mg glucagon to 23ml D5W, D10W to make 1mg in 24ml. Mix well. Do not use if not clear.
3. Consider compatible in D5W and D10W, precipitates in chloride and calcium solutions. Consider incompatible with all other substances. Use a separate line for glucagon infusions.
4. Filter prior to administration through a Pall 0.22 micron filter.
5. Administer via a syringe pump.
6. Change fluid and tubing every 24 hours.

1. Reconstitute with water to 1mg/ml immediately prior to use.
2. Does not require further dilution. Filter prior to administration.
3. There is no data available on drug or additive compatibilities. Consider incompatible with all other substances. Precipitates in chloride and calcium solutions.
4. Administer by slow IV injection over 1 minute.
5. Flush with D5W before and after administration of glucagon.
6. Do NOT mix with any drugs, IV solutions, blood and blood products.

1. Reconstitute with water to 1mg/ml immediately prior to use.

Nursing Considerations

1. Assess IV site closely for signs of extravasation.
2. Observe for signs of adverse effects.
3. Observe clinical condition closely for signs of hypoglycaemia. Monitor blood glucose levels.
4. Monitor blood pressure regularly.

Storage

• At room temperature <25°C until reconstitution.
• Use immediately following reconstitution.
• Is not suitable for storage.

References