[Preparation of a compatibility chart for intravenous drug therapy in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units]

Abstract

Background: Modern neonatal and pediatric intensive care includes a sophisticated pharmacotherapy with numerous drugs, mainly administered intravenously. Often, despite the use of multi-lumen central venous lines, more peripheral venous accesses are required. To reduce the necessity of numerous venous lines on one hand and on the other hand to avoid complications from incompatibilities of the administered drugs, we compiled a compatibility chart, encompassing more substances than covered in previously available charts.

Methods: Information on compatibility of commonly prescribed drugs was collected by analysis of manufacturers' information, medical and pharmaceutical handbooks, and a literature research.

Results: Available data on compatibility of 78 drugs were displayed in a two-dimensional chart. Beside the pH of each drug, compatibility of drug combinations was encoded for simultaneous infusion. Special emphasis was on security of the therapy.

Conclusion: The compatibility chart gives quick reference for Data on compatibility of intravenously administered drugs in neonatal and pediatric intensive care.