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Best Practices for CRI and IV Fluid Documentation

In Instinct EMR and Instinct Treatment Plan, IV fluids, additives, and Continuous Rate Infusions (CRIs) are documented as separate Treatment Sheet entries to improve clarity and reduce errors during treatment changes and shift handoffs.

Written by Melissa Duarte

Document CRIs and IV Fluids Safely

Follow these practices to maintain clear, accurate records:

  • Admins: configure appropriate units during initial setup. Think through how items are to be ordered and recorded on a Tx sheet or Ax sheet.

  • Document each IV fluid or additive on its own Treatment Sheet line—do not combine multiple fluids or additives in a single entry.

  • Use Change orders (Change CRI, Change IV Fluids, etc.) whenever modifying an existing IV fluid or CRI, instead of editing the original order directly. See Changing the Rate of any Continuous Infusion on a Treatment Sheet for details.

  • Include detailed order notes whenever you make changes.


What to include in order notes

Detailed order notes reduce confusion during treatment changes and shift transitions. Include the following when relevant:

  • Dosing/unit details (eg, mg/kg/day, mL/hr)

  • Maximum dose limits

  • Administration instructions

  • Pump settings or other important reminders


Frequently asked questions

Why should CRIs and IV fluids be documented on separate Treatment Sheet lines?

Documenting each fluid and additive separately keeps orders distinct, makes changes easier to track, and reduces the risk of errors during shift transitions or treatment modifications.

When should I use a Change Order instead of editing an existing order?

Use a Change Order any time you modify an existing IV fluid or CRI—for example, to change the rate, concentration, or additives. Change Orders preserve a record of what was ordered and when, which supports accurate documentation and patient safety.


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