What is an IV push?

An IV push is a method of administering medication intravenously by quickly injecting a single dose directly into the patient's bloodstream, according to Healthline. The medical professional inserts a syringe into the patient's vein to adminster the medication. The process is also called a bolus dose.

When a medication is given too quickly in an IV push, the veins near the injection site may suffer damage or become inflamed, notes Healthline. Developing an air embolism is another risk when administering an intravenous push. Air bubbles enter the vein if air is in the syringe, and these bubbles can migrate to the lungs and heart and cause the patient critical circulation problems.