What is the purpose of a filter needle?

The primary purpose of a filter needle is to remove particulate matter from a solution. When preparing medications for intravenous administration, ensuring that the solution is free from contaminants, such as pieces of rubber from vial stoppers or other particulate matter, is crucial for patient safety. A filter needle contains a specialized filter that captures these unwanted particles while allowing the liquid medication to pass through. This process helps prevent potential complications that could arise from injecting foreign materials into the bloodstream, which could lead to serious reactions or complications.

The focus on removing particulate matter emphasizes the importance of preparation methods in IV therapy. This ensures the highest standards of safety and efficacy in administering medications. In contrast, other options such as sterilizing medication, increasing fluid flow, or injecting air into a vial do not capture the primary function of a filter needle, which is centered around filtration to enhance the safety of intravenous medications.