If a client's IV solution is infusing at 250 mL/hr, what should the nurse do?

• A. Increase IV rate
• B. Slow the IV infusion to keep vein open rate
• C. Discontinue IV
• D. Notify the physician

Answer: (B)

Maintaining IV line patency is the goal. If the infusion is running faster than needed and there isn’t a current order for rapid administration, slow it to a keep vein open (KVO) rate so the line stays open without delivering a large volume. A KVO rate is a small, steady flow—often around 25–30 mL/hr for adults—used to preserve access for future meds or fluids. Increasing the rate would go beyond the prescribed plan; discontinuing the IV would remove access altogether; notifying the physician isn’t necessary unless there’s a problem or a change in the order. So slowing to the keep vein open rate keeps the line usable and prepares for any needed future therapy.