Which IV medication administration method typically requires an IV pump for safety?

The choice of volume-controlled infusion as the method that typically requires an IV pump for safety is based on its nature and purpose in clinical settings. This method is used to administer medication or fluids in a controlled manner, allowing for precise regulation of the volume and the rate of infusion.

When using an IV pump, healthcare providers can set specific parameters for delivery, which is crucial for medications that require consistent blood levels or where patient safety is paramount, such as in the case of critical medications like antibiotics, chemotherapeutics, or fluids. The pump helps prevent accidental over-infusion or under-infusion and can provide alarms and alerts to ensure that the administration is proceeding as expected.

In contrast, other methods like IV push, direct bolus injection, and intermittent access do not necessarily require the use of a pump, as they can be administered rapidly or through manual regulation. These methods typically deliver a single dose of medication or fluid without the ongoing monitoring capabilities provided by an IV pump. Therefore, the use of a pump for volume-controlled infusion enhances patient safety by allowing for more accurate and monitored medication delivery.