When preparing an intravenous (IV) infusion, what is the appropriate action if the IV tubing has been contaminated?

When an IV infusion setup is contaminated, the safest and most appropriate action is to replace the IV tubing with new tubing. This is crucial because any potential contamination of the IV tubing poses a significant risk for infection, which could jeopardize the patient's health. By replacing the tubing, you remove any pathogens that may have been introduced and ensure that the IV administration is safe and sterile.

Using a contaminated IV line or attempting to clean it, such as by wiping it with povidone-iodine, does not guarantee the elimination of all pathogens and may not adequately address the risk of infection. Discarding the client’s needleless access device might not address the primary issue of the contaminated tubing itself. Moreover, contacting a physician for approval could delay necessary action, which is critical in maintaining patient safety. Thus, replacing the IV tubing promptly is the best way to ensure sterility and protect the patient from potential infections.